Why Real Madrid Have 'Complete Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage creates club a historic moment in a key European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

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 promising protegees.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

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

"I have just achieved my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

Pitarch has seized it with displays that have defied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I understand people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the option to play for both nations at the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate 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, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my minutes on the pitch," he commented after the win at Manchester.