The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes club history in a crucial European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player after his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have defied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will continue to get chances with the main squad. It is delightful 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 Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team pursue trophies to come.

Following his impressive impact to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.