Why Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Faith' in Teenager Pitarch
Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.
During his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to secure a quarter-final berth.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise From The Academy
This talent is the latest 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 Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
He progressed 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 caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and determination he brought to the team.
'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'
During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," stated Pitarch following his first appearance.
"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."
Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.
The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.
"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is extremely dynamic, with great endurance, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.
"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I understand fans might be surprised to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.
"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before joining Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.
He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to represent both nations at the highest level.
According to international regulations, footballers may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive full international.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with interest.
In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision soon."
This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club chase future success.
Following his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.
"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Manchester.
