The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates club a historic moment in a key Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight berth.

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

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

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

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, 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 have just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize fans might be surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to perform his normal game.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.

Under international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team 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 La Roja reached the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the team chase trophies to come.

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

"The manager handles me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to deserve my minutes on the pitch," he said following the win at Manchester.