Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes club a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

At 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 Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

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

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

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

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

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.

"His greatest quality is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

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

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, players may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.

He has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

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

Eyes on the Prize

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

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the team pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I must deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.