Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid history in a crucial European match against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.
During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final berth.
At 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.
Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica
The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'
In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.
Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing football, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," said the player following his debut.
"I've just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his age and inexperience.
"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, effort and movement."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.
"His greatest quality is his character," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I understand people are surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to do his normal game.
"Thiago will keep receiving chances with the first team. It is delightful to coach a player like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He possesses both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.
According to Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they play in a competitive senior international match.
Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."
His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
For now, his attention 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 completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.
He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.
After his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, the midfielder is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.
