The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage creates club a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He 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 caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes during the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side 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 football, every day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated Pitarch after his first appearance.

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

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have defied his age and experience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent endurance, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I realize people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

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

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official senior international match.

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 Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase future success.

Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.