Thiago Pitarch's Journey from Youth Talent to First Team
Thiago Pitarch, born in 2007 in Fuenlabrada, Madrid, exemplifies the journey of young football talents who ascend from the youth academy to the first team, a path recently traversed by Raúl Asencio and Gonzalo García. After a standout performance against Manchester City, the midfielder, sporting the number ‘45’ jersey, is eager to make his mark as the next significant player to emerge from Real Madrid. His impressive display has bolstered his profile on the international stage, having previously donned the Spanish national jersey at various youth levels. Meanwhile, Morocco, the homeland of his paternal grandparents, remains keenly interested in his development.
Despite his newfound prominence, Pitarch has long been on the radar of scouts due to his dynamic play and tactical awareness. His journey began in the youth systems of Getafe, Atlético, and Leganés before Real Madrid recognized his potential. What initially began as a project within the Juvenil B team has now seen him evolve into a starting player for the first team, showcasing his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
International Interest and Dual Heritage
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has kept a close watch on Pitarch's progression, leading to his selection for the Spanish under-20 national team at the World Cup held in Chile last September and October. As a key player, he helped the team reach the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Colombia. Although he had just turned 18, Morocco had already attempted to recruit him, a strategy they have employed repeatedly to attract talents from the diaspora.
The North African federation has actively sought out promising players, examining their genealogical backgrounds to present future opportunities, similar to their approach with Brahim, who was drawn to become a flagship player for the senior national team, ultimately turning down Spain. Other successful recruitments include notable players such as Achraf Hakimi, Munir, and Ez Abde. Conversely, there are players like Lamine Yamal who opted for Spain over Morocco.
Thiago Pitarch's connection to Morocco, though more distant, grants him eligibility for dual nationality. His paternal grandfather was born in Alhucemas, a city that became part of Morocco in 1956 following the end of the Spanish protectorate in the northern region. Spain's involvement began in 1925 during the tumultuous Rif War, a conflict that concluded the nationalist resistance in a territory marked by contention.
Even though Pitarch chose to represent Spain at the under-20 World Cup, Morocco's interest in him persists. The Moroccan federation offered him a spot in the tournament, but he opted for Spain. However, they continue to monitor his career closely, particularly given the high competition in his position. The next step for Pitarch to secure his future with Spain would be a call-up to the under-21 team, managed by David Gordo, for the qualifying matches leading to the 2027 European Championship.
Decisions made by his family will play a critical role in his future, just as they did for players like Lamine and Brahim. The recent exposure and attention surrounding him have been well-supported by his close-knit circle. According to current FIFA regulations updated in 2020, a player has the opportunity to change national teams once, provided they do so before turning 21 and have not played more than three international matches with the senior team of the first federation. Hence, despite the current circumstances, Morocco remains vigilant regarding Pitarch's career trajectory.
As reported by sport.es.
