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

Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight place.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

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

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Reports 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 drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to train with the first team and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said the player following his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

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

"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

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

"He will continue to get chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned youth academy.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the club chase trophies to come.

Following his notable contributions 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 naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.