The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Complete Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a crucial European match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager 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 career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

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

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

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

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, 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 doesn't feel it.

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

"He will continue to get chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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 victory at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club chase future success.

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

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he said after the success at Manchester.