The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Faith' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - 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 qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise 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 and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, 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 the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

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

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his age and inexperience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued he. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

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

"He will continue to get chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club chase future success.

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the win at Manchester.