Why Real Madrid Have 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a pivotal European match against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

He joined Real from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

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

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," said the player following his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He is extremely energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

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

"Thiago will continue to get chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the two-one victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team pursue future success.

After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Manchester.