Thiago Pitarch talks Valverde, Brahim, Arbeloa, Real Madrid dream | OneFootball

One of the most positive stories to emerge from Real Madrid in recent weeks has been the rise of young academy talent Thiago Pitarch. 

The midfielder has recently stepped into the first-team spotlight and is quickly gaining recognition inside the club.

During Real Madrid’s impressive victory over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, Pitarch experienced a challenging moment when a mistake nearly led to a dangerous opportunity for the opposition. 

However, the reaction from both teammates and supporters showed just how much belief there is in the young player.

When he was substituted later in the match, the fans at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium gave him a standing ovation. The gesture clearly meant a lot to the academy graduate.

Speaking later on Real Madrid TV, Pitarch reflected on the emotional support he has received throughout his journey. 

“From day one, they’ve always believed in me. They’re the ones who taught me this sport from a young age, who took me everywhere, and who never left me alone. 

“They’ve never missed a single training session or match. After all, this gift that life has given me is very much thanks to them. 

“Now I want to enjoy it fully with them and, above all, thank them. They’ve been a huge turning point in my life,” he reflected.

Early years

Pitarch has made quite an impact. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The young midfielder also looked back at the early stages of his football journey. 

His development began very close to home before he gradually moved through several academies on his way to Real Madrid.

“I started at age three at the Atleti Foundation, which was right next to my house. I was there until I was 12, when I went to Getafe. 

“I was there for five and a half years, then I went to Leganes, and then the opportunity of a lifetime came along: to be at Real Madrid.”

The moment Real Madrid first showed interest remains one of the most unforgettable memories of his career so far. 

Pitarch described how quickly the decision was made once the opportunity appeared.

“It was during a training session. They told me that Real Madrid was interested in me, and I didn’t think twice. 

“I told my parents yes, that we were heading there right away. It all happened very quickly because there wasn’t much to think about,” he remembered.

Training with the first team

Now training alongside some of the biggest names in football, the young player admitted that the experience still feels surreal.

“Not even in my wildest dreams would these things be happening to me. Being with these players, who are the best in the world. 

“You have to enjoy playing with them and learn as much as possible.”

Inside the dressing room, Pitarch says he has been welcomed warmly by his teammates. 

In particular, he highlighted the support he receives from Federico Valverde and Brahim Diaz.

“I think I’ve fit into the group pretty well. Especially with Valverde and Brahim. I talk to the Spaniards the most, but those two help me a lot during games. 

“They tell me to stay calm, to play the way I know how, to fight, to work hard, and not to be afraid when I have the ball.”

Pitarch also praised the trust shown in him by his coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who has played a key role in his development.

“He’s very important to me. He’s always given me his full confidence, from the very first minute. I always try to repay him because I have no choice but to do so. 

“From the very beginning, he’s talked to me. He tells me to have personality, to be myself, and not to be afraid to show who I am.

“That’s what I try to do to repay all the confidence he gives me.”

The Bernabeu moment

Thiago Pitarch is living the dream. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

One of the most unforgettable moments for the young player came when he heard the Bernabeu crowd applauding him after being substituted.

“I heard it just as I was heading to the bench, and it gave me goosebumps. I said, ‘Are they calling me?’ 

“I’m very happy; I saw it on video, and it’s a source of pride. Especially for my family and me, it’s been many years of hard work.”

The connection with supporters has already begun to grow, something Pitarch deeply appreciates.

“I’ve felt it from day one. I think they’ve really taken a liking to me; I’ll always be grateful for that, and I’m going to prove that I’ll never let them down. 

“I’ll always give my all for this jersey so we can keep winning games like yesterday’s.”

Real Madrid’s values

The youngster also spoke about the culture within the club’s academy and the values that players are taught as they progress toward the first team.

“Never give up, fight until the end, give it your all every day, train hard, play the way they teach you here. 

“The youth academy is very well run. They teach us the values of this club 100%.”

Legends at the club

Finally, Pitarch revealed which legendary players have inspired him the most during his development.

“Modric, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kroos, Sergio Ramos… They’re players who have defined an era, especially at this club, and in the history of football.”

Looking ahead, the youngster made it clear that his dream is to keep growing with Real Madrid and win trophies wearing the famous white shirt.

“To keep playing in this jersey at the best stadium in the world and for the best club in the world. And above all, to win titles with this team,” he concluded.