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

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to start twice 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

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 protegees.

He joined Madrid from 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 progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and determination he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

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

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, each day you head to training and each day you have a game," said Pitarch following his first appearance.

"I've just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

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

"He is a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent endurance, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision 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 under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with Bayern Munich.

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 notable contributions so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

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