Why Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes club history in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.
During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a last eight berth.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica
This talent is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.
He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and determination he brought to the side.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'
During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during pre-season.
However, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," said Pitarch after his first appearance.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."
Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.
The teenager has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.
"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.
"His greatest quality is his personality," added he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.
"Thiago will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's renowned youth academy.
He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.
According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.
Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision in the near future."
This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.
He played 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the team pursue trophies to come.
Following his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.
"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must earn my minutes on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.
