Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Trust' in Youngster Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes club history in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.
During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight berth.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica
This talent is the most recent to emerge 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 the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.
Pitarch progressed 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 took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.
'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'
In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the senior squad and gave him minutes in pre-season.
However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, every day you head to training and every day you have a game," said Pitarch after his first appearance.
"I have just achieved my ambition with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving 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 displays that have defied his youth and inexperience.
"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with great endurance, effort and movement."
Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.
"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I understand fans might be surprised to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.
"Thiago will keep receiving chances 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 the local game, moving through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.
He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the option to represent both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a competitive full international.
Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.
Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision in the near future."
His situation echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz opted to play for Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.
He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.
After his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must earn my minutes on the field," he said following the win at Manchester.
