Why Real Madrid Have 'Utter Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real 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 Tuesday's second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to practice with the first team and gave him playing time in pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

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

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

Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

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

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.

"His greatest quality is his character," continued he. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the choice to represent either country at the highest level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club chase trophies to come.

Following his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the win at Manchester.