The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to secure a last eight place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

This talent 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 Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded him playing time in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing football, every day you head to training and each day you have a game," said the player after his debut.

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

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before entering the club's famous La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official senior international match.

He has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention 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 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.