Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage creates club history in a key European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

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

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

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the team chase future success.

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must earn my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the win at Manchester.