The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Utter Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a pivotal European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek return to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

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

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then coached 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.

Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

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

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

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

"I have just achieved my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have defied his age and inexperience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

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

"I realize fans might be astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the choice to represent both nations at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

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

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz decided to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team pursue trophies to come.

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.