The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Thiago Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal European tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.
During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight berth.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent From The Academy
This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.
Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game 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 took over from the previous coach in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and determination he added to the team.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes during pre-season.
However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment 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've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch following his first appearance.
"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."
Handed a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.
The teenager has taken it with displays that have defied his age and experience.
"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."
The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.
"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.
"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the option to play for either country at the highest level.
Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.
He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.
In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision in the near future."
This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim opted to represent the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.
He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.
He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.
Following his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he said following the success at Manchester.
