Why Los Blancos Have 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch
Whenever a 18-year-old creates club history in a key European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.
During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight berth.
Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica
The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.
He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.
He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he brought to the team.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him minutes in the warm-up matches.
However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated the player after his debut.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world 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 retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with displays that have belied his age and experience.
"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."
The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.
"His greatest quality is his personality," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the option to play for both nations at senior international 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, representing both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.
Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."
This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for La Roja, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.
Focus on the Future
At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding 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 Bayern Munich.
His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase trophies to come.
After his impressive impact to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"The manager handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Manchester.