Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

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 Benfica that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

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

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

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

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

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

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to perform his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a official full international.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

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

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

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for over an hour in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.

After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he said after the win at Manchester.