Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes club history in a pivotal European match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

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 joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He progressed to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Reports would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

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

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I've just achieved my ambition with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the choice to play for either country at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played 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 Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one win at City, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue trophies to come.

After his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my playing time on the field," he commented following the success at Etihad Stadium.