The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch
When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.
In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final berth.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent From The Academy
This talent 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 Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
He progressed to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he brought to the team.
'His Best Attribute Is His Personality'
During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the first team and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this every night before going to bed, 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 debut.
"I've just achieved my ambition with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."
Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.
"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.
"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to represent both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.
Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."
This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with Bayern Munich.
He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to aid the club pursue future success.
After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.