Why Los Blancos Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch
Whenever a 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.
During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight place.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent From The Academy
The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.
He joined Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.
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 the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
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 energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up the youngster to train with the first team and gave him minutes in pre-season.
Yet, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.
"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated the player after his first appearance.
"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."
Handed a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.
The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.
"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."
The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.
"His greatest quality is his personality," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.
"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to play for either country at the highest level.
According to international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.
Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive 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 club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.
He played over an hour in the two-one win at City, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue trophies to come.
After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.