Real Madrid more than happy with breakout star’s season despite fading spotlight | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s midfield dynamics have shifted significantly in recent weeks, but one young talent continues to be viewed as a long-term asset despite his reduced role. 

According to MARCA, the club still considers Thiago Pitarch’s breakthrough season as “very positive”, even though his prominence in the squad has declined.

Pitarch’s campaign has been a story of rapid rise and sudden adjustment. 

The youngster made an impressive leap from the academy to the first team earlier in the season, taking advantage of injuries and squad rotation. 

During that period, he not only featured regularly but also earned the trust of Alvaro Arbeloa, who handed him opportunities in key fixtures.

“Despite this decline, his season remains very positive compared to expectations, as he made a rapid transition from the youth team to the first team,” says the outlet.

Sudden rise

One of the defining aspects of Arbeloa’s tenure has been his willingness to promote youth, and Pitarch stands out as a clear example. 

The midfielder managed to establish himself ahead of experienced options and his involvement was not limited to minor appearances either. 

Pitarch started four La Liga matches and was trusted in high-pressure European fixtures, including starts against Manchester City and Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League.

Thiago Pitarch has been impressive this season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

However, the turning point came during the clash against Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

With the return of key players, particularly Jude Bellingham, the team’s hierarchy began to re-establish itself. 

From that moment on, Pitarch’s role diminished, with the coaching staff prioritising established stars such as Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Arda Guler.

As the squad returned to full strength, competition in midfield intensified, leaving little room for rotation. 

Pitarch was gradually pushed to the bench and has even been left out of matchday squads in recent games, including the league fixture against Alaves.

Real Madrid are more than happy

Despite this, Real Madrid see Pitarch as a player to protect and develop, especially given how quickly he adapted to first-team football. 

Looking ahead, though, uncertainty around the managerial position could influence his role next season, particularly with Arbeloa expected to depart. 

However, internal decisions have already been made regarding his future, with the current coaching staff having previously backed his place in the senior setup.

For now, Pitarch’s minutes may be limited, but there is little doubt that this campaign has already established him as one of the most promising young players to watch in the years ahead.