The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Total Trust' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a key European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

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

He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

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

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded him minutes during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, each day you head to training and every day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

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

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform his normal game.

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

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's famous La Fabrica system.

He holds dual 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 youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official full international.

He has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the team pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the pitch," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.