Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing football, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated Pitarch after his debut.

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - 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 created an opportunity.

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

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and movement."

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

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the option to play for either country at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase future success.

Following his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he said after the win at Manchester.