​Real Madrid midfielder Thiago Pitarch has opened up about his rapid progression through the club’s ranks, his experiences training with the first team, and his ambitions for the future in an interview with AS. Having moved up from Juvenil A to Castilla and earned chances to train with the senior squad, Pitarch says he has tried to stay grounded throughout his development. “I started with the Juvenil A team and thought, ‘I’ll see how it goes.’ Then I began performing well with Castilla and later I started training with the first team. I’ve taken it all very calmly. I still surround myself with the same people. The thing that matters most to me is enjoying playing football.”
The midfielder acknowledged that adapting to Real Madrid’s level is a challenge, but he views every opportunity as a chance to grow. “At Real Madrid, the best players in the world play, and you have to adapt. The important thing there was to enjoy every match and learn a lot from them because you never know when it might be your last.” Pitarch also praised coach Álvaro Arbeloa and national team coach Gallardo for the confidence they have shown in him. “I have a very good relationship with both Arbeloa and Gallardo. They’ve given me all the confidence they could, and I try to repay that on the field. It’s very important for a player to have so much confidence in his coaches.”
When asked about speculation surrounding his future under José Mourinho, Pitarch insisted his focus remains solely on Spain’s upcoming European Championship final. “Mourinho hasn’t contacted me yet. I’m focused on the European Championship final, and that’s all I’m thinking about. We’ll see what happens after that.” Despite receiving messages of support from Real Madrid, he revealed he is trying not to be distracted. “I’ve spoken to several people at the club who wished me luck in the final, but honestly, I’m not really checking my phone. I’m really enjoying the experience with my teammates because you never know when you’ll get another chance like this.”
Pitarch also acknowledged the fierce competition for places at the Santiago Bernabéu, yet believes the academy continues to prepare players to step up whenever they are called upon. “The best players in the world play for Real Madrid, which makes it harder to break into the first team, but we’re proving that when we get the chance, we’re ready. That’s why they train us in the youth academy, to help the first team.”
The 18-year-old midfielder cited the players who have inspired his game, mentioning two club legends along with one current Madrid star. “I’ve always admired high-quality midfielders like Kroos and Modric, and the midfielders of Iniesta’s Spain. Now I’m really fond of Bellingham.” He recalled how training alongside Real Madrid’s biggest names felt initially overwhelming before becoming part of his daily routine. “The first few days with the Real Madrid stars were a bit dazzling; it felt surreal at first, but soon it became a natural part of my day.”