The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes club history in a key European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe 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 during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I started playing the game, each day you head to training and every day you play a match," said the player following his first appearance.

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

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence 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?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the option to play for both nations at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club chase trophies to come.

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

"The manager treats me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Manchester.