The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight place.
At 18 years old, Pitarch was the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing 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 rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.
He joined Real from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.
Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention 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 technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he brought to the team.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.
Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," said Pitarch following his first appearance.
"I've just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."
Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.
The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.
"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.
"His greatest quality is his character," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are surprised to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.
He holds both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the choice to represent both nations at the highest level.
According to international regulations, footballers may appear for different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.
He has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.
In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."
This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.
He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.
He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club pursue future success.
Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.