The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes club a historic moment in a crucial Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.
During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a three-nil round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final place.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent Through The Academy
The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.
He signed for Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.
He progressed to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and determination he brought to the team.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the first team and awarded him minutes during the warm-up matches.
However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated the player after his first appearance.
"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."
Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.
Pitarch has taken it with performances that have belied his youth and inexperience.
"He is a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.
"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I realize people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform his normal game.
"Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."
A Future International Decision
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining the club's famous youth academy.
He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the option to play for both nations at the highest level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."
This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
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 the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase future success.
After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.
"The manager treats me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.
