Why Los Blancos Have 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a key Champions League tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character 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 gave him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing football, each day you head to training and every day you have a game," stated the player after his debut.

"I've just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and experience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"He 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 Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the choice to represent either country at the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the two-one victory at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.