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

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a key European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his maiden start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to train with the first team and awarded him minutes in the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," said Pitarch after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."

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

"His greatest quality is his personality," added he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to see him make his debut 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 opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the option to play for either country at senior international level.

According to international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, 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 sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

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

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

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I must deserve my minutes on the pitch," he said after the success at Manchester.