The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Confidence' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch
Whenever a 18-year-old creates Real Madrid history in a crucial European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.
During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a last eight berth.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica
The midfielder is the latest to come through 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 formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.
Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he brought to the side.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.
However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, every day you head to training and each day you have a game," stated the player following his debut.
"I've just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."
Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.
Pitarch has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.
"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's incredibly dynamic, with great stamina, effort and movement."
The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.
"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I understand people are astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.
"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
A Future International Decision
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.
He holds both Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the choice to play for either country at the highest level.
Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.
He has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.
Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with interest.
Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision in the near future."
His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.
He featured for over an hour in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the team chase future success.
Following his impressive impact to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"The manager handles me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must earn my playing time on the field," he said following the success at Manchester.