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

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a pivotal European match against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch 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 play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed 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 teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

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

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

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

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

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

"I realize people are astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do his normal game.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to represent either country at senior international level.

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

He has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

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

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

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 tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he said following the win at Manchester.