Why Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch
Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance 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 Santiago Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final berth.
At 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy
The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.
He progressed to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he added to the side.
'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'
In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," said Pitarch following his debut.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.
The teenager has seized it with performances that have defied his age and experience.
"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He is extremely energetic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.
"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are astonished to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's renowned youth academy.
He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a competitive full international.
He has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the U19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.
Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."
This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club chase trophies to come.
Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my playing time on the field," he said after the success at Manchester.
