Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid history in a key Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm 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 knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vinicius 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 exciting young players.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the first team and awarded him minutes during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, each 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 top tournament."

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

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

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final 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 U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the win at Manchester.