Xabi Alonso’s Bet, Thiago Pitarch Impresses in Real Madrid Training
Spanish-Moroccan midfielder stands out at “La Fábrica” and earns call-up to train with the senior squad
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has turned his attention to the club’s academy, offering 18-year-old Thiago Pitarch his first opportunity to train with the first team. The move highlights the growing prominence of “La Fábrica,” the nickname for the Spanish giants’ renowned youth system, which continues to produce players capable of making the leap to elite football.
Pitarch, who will feature for Castilla this season under the guidance of Álvaro Arbeloa, joined the senior squad’s session alongside fellow prospects Manuel Ángel, Diego Aguado, and Daniel Yáñez on August 4. His inclusion reflects the club’s confidence in his potential, as well as Alonso’s willingness to integrate emerging talents into the first-team environment.
A Rising Talent with Dual Nationality
Born in Fuenlabrada in 2007, Pitarch holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality through his grandmother from Al Hoceima. He arrived at Real Madrid in the 2023/24 season, having previously developed at Atlético de Madrid (2013–2018), Getafe, and Leganés.
A right-footed central midfielder, Pitarch is known for his close control, composure under pressure, and tactical intelligence. These qualities have quickly made him one of the academy’s most talked-about prospects.
Pathway to the First Team
With the 2025/26 season approaching, Pitarch’s immediate focus will be on gaining competitive experience with Castilla. However, Alonso’s close monitoring suggests that a first-team debut could come as early as this campaign if the midfielder continues to impress.
Inside Valdebebas, club staff view Pitarch as a player with the attributes to eventually compete for a permanent place in the senior squad. The prospect of seeing him step out at the Santiago Bernabéu is now a realistic medium-term goal.
As Real Madrid prepare for the new season, the progress of Thiago Pitarch will be watched closely by both the coaching staff and fans eager to see another academy graduate follow in the footsteps of past club legends.
