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

When an teenage makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 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 cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to train with the first team and gave him playing time in pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said the player after his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

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

"I understand people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform his normal game.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering the club's famous La Fabrica system.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the option to represent both nations at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a competitive full international.

He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club pursue trophies to come.

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

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented following the win at Manchester.