The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes club a historic moment in a crucial Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side defeat the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising 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 positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the first team and gave him minutes during pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, each day you head to training and every day you have a game," stated the player following his debut.

"I have just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with great endurance, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose Spain, Diaz opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

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

He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase future success.

After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.