Sports
Real Madrid's Pitarch: From Academy to Champions League Debut
Real Madrid's Thiago Pitarch debuted in a Champions League knockout match against Benfica. The 18-year-old midfielder also participated in the U-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.
Real Madrid gave Pitarch minutes in the pre-season, and he was consistently named to the matchday squads to start the season. Xabi Alonso observed Pitarch in the summer of 2025. Pitarch's age group was considered light on talent. Despite Real Madrid's reputation for not promoting youth players, Pitarch stood out from his peers. He was a regular player for Spain in the U-20 World Cup, where they narrowly lost to Colombia in the quarter-finals. Pitarch's Champions League debut occurred in a tight game against Benfica during a knockout round play-off tie.
Key Facts
- Thiago Pitarch debuted for Real Madrid at 18 years old.
- Pitarch was included in matchday squads.
- Xabi Alonso scouted Pitarch in the summer of 2025.
- Pitarch played for Spain's U-20 World Cup team.
- Spain lost to Colombia in the U-20 World Cup quarter-final.
- Real Madrid faced Benfica in a Champions League knockout round.
- Real Madrid coach Arbeloa introduced Pitarch to help secure the game against Benfica.