Why Real Madrid Possess 'Utter Faith' in Teenager Pitarch
When an teenage makes club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.
During his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final place.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica
This talent is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.
He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, 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 faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and determination he added to the team.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso called up the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, every day you head to training and every day you play a match," said Pitarch following his first appearance.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."
Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opportunity.
Pitarch has taken it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.
"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.
"His greatest quality is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do his normal game.
"He will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering the club's renowned youth academy.
He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the option to represent both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his rise with interest.
In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision in the near future."
His situation echoes that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine opted for La Roja, Diaz opted to represent the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying his manager's belief.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.
He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.
Following his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must earn my minutes on the field," he said after the win at Manchester.