The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch
When an teenage makes club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.
In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight place.
Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica
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 exciting protegees.
He signed for Real from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created 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 academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later describe 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 brought 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 awarded him playing time during pre-season.
Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, each day you head to training and every day you have a game," stated the player after his debut.
"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the world and in the best competition."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.
Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his age and experience.
"He's a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," said the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.
"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do his normal game.
"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.
He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the choice to represent either country at the highest level.
Under international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.
Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."
His situation echoes that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He featured for over an hour in the two-one win at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.
After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.
"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the success at Manchester.
