Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a pivotal European match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg 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 football, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do his normal game.

"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

Under international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official senior international match.

He has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team chase future success.

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

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Manchester.