Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes club history in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

He joined Real from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have defied his age and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's famous La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the option to represent both nations at the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team chase future success.

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I must earn my minutes on the field," he said following the win at Manchester.