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Teen prodigy shines in Real Madrid's Champions League triumph
An 18-year-old midfielder has become the youngest player in Real Madrid's history to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, delivering standout performances against Manchester City to secure a quarter-final berth.
Record-breaking debut
Thiago Pitarch, 18 years and 226 days old, surpassed Vinícius Júnior's previous record by 10 days after starting both legs of Real Madrid's last-16 tie against Manchester City. His composed displays helped the 15-time European champions secure a 5-1 aggregate victory, booking a quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.
Pitarch's journey to the first team has been rapid. He made his Real Madrid debut as a substitute in a Champions League play-off against Benfica last month before earning his first start in the competition's knockout phase. His performances have drawn comparisons to the club's legendary academy graduates.
Rise through the ranks
Born in Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Pitarch joined Real Madrid's famed La Fábrica academy in 2023 after stints with Atlético Madrid, Getafe, and Leganés. He quickly progressed from the Juvenil C team to Real Madrid Castilla (B team), where his technical ability and relentless energy caught the eye of first-team coach Álvaro Arbeloa during a friendly.
Spanish media dubbed the moment "love at first sight," highlighting Pitarch's maturity, work rate, and leadership-qualities that set him apart from his peers. His rise accelerated under Arbeloa, who handed him his senior debut as a late substitute in the Benfica play-offs before thrusting him into the starting lineup against Manchester City.
Coach's confidence
Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January, has been instrumental in Pitarch's development. The coach praised the teenager's dynamism, stamina, and fearless mentality, noting: "His greatest quality is his personality. He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it."
"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I started playing football, every day you go to train, and every game. I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."
Thiago Pitarch
Pitarch's performances have silenced skeptics, with Arbeloa insisting: "He's playing because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does. Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team."
International future and ambitions
Pitarch holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, leaving his senior international future open. He has represented Spain at youth level, including the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, but remains uncommitted to either nation.
In a recent interview, he stated: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon." His situation mirrors that of Real Madrid teammate Brahim Díaz, who opted for Morocco, and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, who chose Spain.
For now, Pitarch's focus remains on cementing his place in Real Madrid's first team. He played 74 minutes in the decisive 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium, later replaced by fellow academy product Manuel Ángel as Arbeloa emphasized his trust in young talent.
What's next
With Real Madrid set to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals, Pitarch is poised to play a pivotal role. His rapid ascent has already made him one of the club's most exciting prospects, with fans and pundits eager to see how far he can go.
"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally," Pitarch said after the City win. "I try not to think about it too much-I have to earn my minutes on the field."
