Real Madrid has been unable to deliver on Xabi Alonso’s request to sign a new midfielder and center-back this summer. When the club entered the market, it encountered a challenging reality: players deemed “Real Madrid caliber” were being sold for triple-digit fees or sums far above their actual market value.

Rather than settle for underwhelming options, Alonso turned to the youth academy and identified several prospects who fit the profiles he needed. One standout is 18-year-old Spanish midfielder Thiago Pitarch.

Pitarch joined Real Madrid in 2023 after spells at Atlético de Madrid, Getafe, and Leganés. Last season, he established himself in the U19 squad under the guidance of Álvaro Arbeloa. This past week, the youngster unexpectedly trained with the first team — and made a dream debut by scoring a goal.

Sharing his excitement on social media, Pitarch wrote: "I’m very happy to have fulfilled a dream: debuting with the first team of the best club in the world and scoring a goal. It’s a day I’ll never forget. It’s an honor to have lived this experience, surrounded by the best."

Known for his strong personality and work ethic, Pitarch caught Arbeloa’s attention last season, earning promotion to Juvenil A and later featuring in Castilla’s preseason. Now, he appears to be steadily winning Alonso’s trust. While a starting role in the senior side is unlikely for now, Alonso’s decision to integrate academy players shows his faith in La Fábrica.

Pitarch concluded his message with determination: "I will keep working hard and giving everything for this shirt so that even better moments come. Now it’s time to prepare for the preseason and have a truly special year.”

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