The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

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 Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and gave him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

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

"I've just achieved my ambition with the greatest club in the planet 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 retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize fans might be surprised to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's famous youth academy.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the option to represent either country at the highest level.

Under international regulations, players 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 featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Diaz 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 over an hour in the two-one win at City, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the team chase future success.

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

"The manager handles me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he said following the win at Manchester.