The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Total Trust' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an teenage creates Real Madrid history in a crucial European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

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 signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and determination he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the first team and awarded him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing football, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," said the player after his first appearance.

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

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has seized it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering the club's famous La Fabrica system.

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official senior international match.

He has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are watching his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.

After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I must earn my minutes on the pitch," he said after the success at Manchester.