Why Real Madrid Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a key Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

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

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes in pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

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

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

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

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

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

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

"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the two-one victory at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

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

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

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented following the win at Etihad Stadium.