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In recent weeks, Alvaro Arbeloa has found a working midfield setup at Real Madrid by fielding a four-man line of Federico Valverde, Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camavinga.
While the results have certainly improved, there remains a lingering feeling that the midfield unit is still lacking something for Los Blancos to take the next step forward.
Thiago Pitarch the solution?
Now, according to MARCA, it could pave the way for young prospect Thiago Pitarch to break into the Real Madrid starting lineup.
Indeed, as per the report, manager Arbeloa is already considering including the 18-year-old academy starlet in the starting XI sooner rather than later.
Thiago made his first-team debut in the first leg of the knockout playoff tie against Benfica, coming on as a late substitute. Last night, he made his second appearance, against the same opposition, playing a little under ten minutes.
A special player. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Arbeloa played a key role in Thiago’s push up to Castilla and sees him as a special player. Even though the 18-year-old was called up frequently by Xabi Alonso earlier in the season, it was Arbeloa who handed the youngster his senior debut.
The Real Madrid head coach continues to be amazed by the young midfielder. Even though Arbeloa already knew that Thiago is exceptionally gifted at handling pressure, he has been stunned by the youngster’s response.
Beyond his technical ability and wide array of qualities, his boldness and personality continue to impress the former defender turned coach.
In January 2025, Arbeloa brought Thiago up from Juvenil B to play under him in Juvenil A. Six months later, when he became Castilla coach, the Spanish tactician did not hesitate in handing the teenager an opportunity in pre-season.
Now, the coach and player aim to take their rise one step further: establishing Thiago in the Real Madrid first team.