​Spain has stormed into the semifinals of the ongoing FIFA World Cup after a thrilling victory over Belgium last night. The triumph gives the nation even more cause to celebrate, as its Under-19 side has also been enjoying an impressive run in a parallel competition. In the ongoing UEFA Under-19 European Championship, Spain’s youngsters have already secured a place in the final, and they are poised to face Germany for the title in what promises to be a gripping showdown.
Several Real Madrid academy standouts, including Thiago Pitarch, Daniel Yanez, Mario Rivas, Diego Aguado, and Jesus Fortea, have been regular starters throughout the tournament, showcasing La Fabrica’s depth and talent. Their consistent performances have made a strong case for the Madrid club’s famed academy to be recognized on the big stage.
In a recent interview with Diario AS ahead of the final, Thiago Pitarch opened up about a range of topics, from his experiences with the Real Madrid first team to the players he admires as role models. He began by naming his inspirations, drawing largely from Real Madrid’s hall of famers and a current rising star.
“Midfield role models? Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić. From Spain, Andrés Iniesta. And now, I really like Jude Bellingham,” Pitarch explained. These names reflect a blend of established legends and contemporary talents who have shaped his understanding of the midfield position and the responsibilities that come with donning the Real Madrid jersey.
Pitarch also offered insight into what it means to compete for a club of Real Madrid’s stature and how the high level of competition can influence a player’s mindset. “At Real Madrid, the best players in the world play, and you have to adapt,” he stated. “The most important thing is to enjoy every match and learn a lot from them because you never know when it might be your last game.” His comments underscored a mature perspective on growth, resilience, and seizing opportunities when they arise in the highest echelons of football.
When pressed about whether he had yet spoken to the team’s new manager, Jose Mourinho, Pitarch replied in the negative. “No, I haven’t spoken to Mourinho yet. I’m focused on the final; we will see what happens next,” he said, signaling a short-term mindset geared toward finishing the current campaign on a high note.
Fans often pepper Pitarch with questions about what day-to-day life is like at Real Madrid, especially when sharing the dressing room with some of football’s biggest stars. Asked what question he hears most frequently, he replied: “What is it like to be with Real Madrid players, what is daily life like with Mbappé, Vini, and others, what is it like to play with them?”
In addressing how he navigates those inquiries, Pitarch shared his perspective: “The first few days are just brilliant, it feels like you’re wearing VR glasses, but you get used to it little by little.” The surreal experience of training and competing alongside such elite teammates gradually becomes part of everyday life as confidence grows and familiarity builds.
Pitarch also gave thanks to the players who helped him settle into life at Real Madrid. He emphasized that the entire squad contributed to his acclimation, saying, “Everyone. They’re all exceptional teammates.” He singled out Carvajal, Brahim, and Carreras for their early support, noting that Brahim played a particularly important role from day one. “Brahim helped me a lot from day one; he’s a teammate I talk to a lot,” he added, highlighting the value of mentorship and camaraderie within the squad.
As the Under-19 European Championship approaches its final, Pitarch’s reflections offer a glimpse into the mindset of a young talent navigating the pressures and pleasures of top-tier football. His remarks also illuminate the broader narrative of Spain’s two-pronged success: a senior national team that has already reached the World Cup semifinals and a youth side that is competing for a continental title, showcasing depth, talent, and a strong development pipeline that continues to bear fruit for Real Madrid and Spain alike.