Thiago Pitarch's Decision to Represent Spain
In a significant move for both player and national teams, Thiago Pitarch, the promising midfielder currently making waves at Real Madrid, has been included in the pre-selection for Spain's U21 team, opting to represent Spain despite interest from Morocco. This decision comes as he has firmly established himself in the first team, not just in La Liga matches but also in crucial encounters such as the Champions League round of 16 against Manchester City, where he showcased his talent and received accolades from the Santiago Bernabéu crowd upon his substitution.
Former Madrid player Álvaro Arbeloa has recognized Thiago as a burgeoning talent, stating, "Everyone agrees on the outstanding performance Thiago is delivering, and for now, he remains here, along with other notable players like Manuel Ángel and César Palacios. As we recover players, we'll see what happens with them." His impressive form has not gone unnoticed by the Royal Spanish Football Federation, which has included him in the preliminary list for the U21 European Championship qualifiers scheduled for 2027.
Pressures of National Identity and Future Prospects
Despite his Moroccan heritage, which comes from his paternal grandparents, and the allure of joining Morocco's national team — a path previously taken by fellow Madridista Brahim — Thiago's ties to Spain seem to weigh heavier. He was approached to play for Morocco in the last U20 World Cup, but he chose to represent Spain, where he played a pivotal role in the tournament. The Moroccan Football Federation is keen to recruit him, especially now that he has emerged as a vital player for Real Madrid, and they are expected to continue their pursuit. The RFEF is aware of the stakes involved and is likely to call him up for the next U21 squad.
Ultimately, the final decision regarding his international future will involve discussions with his family, who have been integral to his journey. In a recent interview with Real Madrid's official media, Thiago expressed gratitude towards his family, stating, "From day one, they have always believed in me. They introduced me to this sport from a young age, took me everywhere, and have never left my side. They have attended every training session and match, making this opportunity a shared gift. Now, I want to enjoy it with them and express my heartfelt thanks. They have been a significant turning point in my life."
As reported by as.com.
