The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a pivotal Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising protegees.

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

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his debut.

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

Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and experience.

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can see what he's capable of," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving opportunities 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 grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official full international.

He has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.

He featured for over an hour in the two-one win at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

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

Following his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he said following the win at Manchester.