Why Real Madrid Possess 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

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

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him minutes in pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you have a game," said the player after his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

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

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before joining the club's renowned youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to play for either country at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Lamine opted for Spain, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at City, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he commented following the success at Etihad Stadium.