Why Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

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

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up 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 the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

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

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

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal chose Spain, Diaz opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team pursue future success.

After his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he said following the success at Manchester.