Why Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

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

At 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

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

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

He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

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

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his age and inexperience.

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

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to represent both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, players may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.

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

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision so far. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.

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

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he said after the success at Manchester.