Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.

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 the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and determination he brought to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during pre-season.

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

"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," stated Pitarch following his first appearance.

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

Handed a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform his normal game.

"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

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 Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he said after the success at Manchester.