Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Faith' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes club history in a crucial European match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

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

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game 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 took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

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

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."

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

"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand fans might be surprised to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before entering the club's famous youth academy.

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

According to 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 competitive full international.

He has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory 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 the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase future success.

Following his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the pitch," he commented after the success at Manchester.