Real Madrid teenage prodigy’s situation uncertain despite breakthrough last season | OneFootball

One of the few positives for Real Madrid during their ill-fated 2025/26 season was the breakthrough of teenage midfielder Thiago Pitarch.

The 18-year-old La Fabrica talent had been in and around the first-team dynamics from the start of pre-season under Xabi Alonso, but it was only under Alvaro Arbeloa that he finally made his senior debut.

After that, Thiago established himself as a regular in the side, even jumping ahead of players like Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos.

The teenager ended the season with 16 first-team appearances, in which he even registered two assists.

Thiago’s future situation unclear

However, heading into the new season, Thiago Pitarch’s situation at Real Madrid is far from clear, reports Guillermo Rai of The Athletic.

What does the future look like for Thiago? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Even though he is held in high regard by some higher-ups in the club, it is not fully clear as to what the immediate future holds for the youngster.

Following his breakthrough under Arbeloa, Thiago is bound to attract interest from outside.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s pursuit of a new central midfielder under incoming manager Jose Mourinho after already signing Bernardo Silva will only intensify competition for places.

So, there is an element of uncertainty surrounding the La Fabrica graduate, who has a contract until 2030 and remains registered as a Castilla player.

Decision rests on Mourinho

Much will depend on Mourinho and what he decides the make-up of his midfield unit at Real Madrid needs to be for next season.

Final decision to depend on Jose. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

As things stand, Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde are set to be crucial players for the Portuguese manager, while the likes of Arda Guler and Bernardo will also have important roles.

There is a possibility that one of Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga could leave, while Dani Ceballos is bound to for the exit doors.

One of those slots will be occupied by whoever Real Madrid sign, with names like Enzo Fernandez and Mateus Fernandes being linked.

So, there could be space for someone like Thiago to continue being in the first-team dynamics, if he makes a good impression on the new manager.

If not, another season with Castilla where he can continue to develop would not be the worst idea. Or a loan move away with a chance to play first-team football elsewhere might also be an option worth exploring.