Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a key Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

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

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster 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 label the moment as "love at first sight," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the first team and awarded him playing time during the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform his normal game.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before entering the club's famous youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official full international.

He has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club chase future success.

Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.