Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a crucial Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts 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 claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise 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 joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and determination he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded 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 each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you play a match," said Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

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

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is extremely energetic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

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

"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are surprised to watch him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

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

He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, 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 either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

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

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.

After his impressive impact to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Etihad Stadium.