Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club history in a crucial European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side defeat the English champions in the midweek return to secure a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the first team and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," said the player following his first appearance.

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

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the field," he said following the success at Manchester.