The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Faith' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

When an teenage makes club history in a key European match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his maiden start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

The midfielder 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 Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

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 coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," said the player after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent endurance, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine opted for La Roja, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the team chase trophies to come.

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

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Etihad Stadium.