Real Madrid’s latest academy jewel, Thiago Pitarch, has burst onto the European stage with record‑breaking performances in the Champions League.
At just 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the youngest player in club history to start twice in the knockout rounds, surpassing Vinícius Jr’s mark.
His composed display helped Madrid secure a 5‑1 aggregate win over Manchester City and book a quarter‑final tie with Bayern Munich.
Coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised his “personality and fearlessness,” while injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos opened the door for Pitarch to cement his place in midfield.
Born in Fuenlabrada, the teenager holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality and has yet to decide which country he will represent at senior level.
For now, his focus remains on repaying Arbeloa’s trust as Madrid chase a 16th European crown.
