The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes club history in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, 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 faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing football, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated the player after his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official full international.

He has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

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

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is great with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which completed 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 the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the team pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles 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 field," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.