The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Utter Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch
Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European match against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a quarter-final berth.
Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica
This talent is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.
He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.
He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and determination he added to the team.
'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'
In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes during pre-season.
However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.
"I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league 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 fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his age and experience.
"He is a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is extremely dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.
"His greatest quality is his personality," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the choice to play for either country at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a competitive full international.
Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."
This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.
After his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented following the win at Etihad Stadium.