The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Trust' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid history in a key European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club 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 champions in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

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

He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and determination he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

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

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the choice to represent both nations at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the team chase future success.

Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he said after the win at Manchester.