Why Real Madrid Have 'Utter Faith' in Teenager Pitarch
Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.
During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight place.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica
The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.
He signed for Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.
He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the first team and gave him minutes in pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment 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 Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you head to training and each day you have a game," said Pitarch after his debut.
"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.
"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.
"His greatest quality is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.
"He will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a player like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned youth academy.
He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the choice to play for either country at senior international level.
Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive full international.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are monitoring his progress with interest.
Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."
This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.
Focus on the Future
At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.
He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the team chase future success.
Following his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he commented following the success at Manchester.