The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a key Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, 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 defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

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 Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," 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 Remains His Character'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, every day you go to train and each day you have a game," said the player following his debut.

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I understand people are astonished to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to represent either country at senior international level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.

Following his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager handles me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he commented following the success at Manchester.