MADRID – The international future of Real Madrid midfielder Thiago Pitarch is becoming a focal point of attention, with both Spain and Morocco vying for his allegiance. The 18-year-old’s performances for Real Madrid’s youth teams have sparked a debate over where he will ultimately represent his country at the senior level, mirroring a recent situation with Brahim Diaz, who chose to play for Morocco.
Pitarch, born in Fuenlabrada, Spain on August 3, 2007, currently plays for Real Madrid, wearing the number 45. Records show he has progressed through the Real Madrid youth system, starting in Juvenil C before reaching Juvenil A and eventually earning a spot with Real Madrid B, where he has made 14 appearances. He recently made his senior debut for Real Madrid on February 17, 2026, coming on as a substitute in a 1-0 Champions League win against Benfica.
The interest from Morocco stems from Pitarch’s Moroccan descent through his grandfather, making him eligible to represent the Atlas Lions. Morocco has been actively recruiting players with dual nationality, and the success they had in convincing Brahim Diaz to switch allegiances has fueled their pursuit of Pitarch. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has demonstrated a proactive scouting strategy, recently changing the sporting nationality of six players, according to reports.
However, Pitarch appears to favor representing Spain. Currently playing for Spain’s under-20 team, with six appearances and no goals, he has been offered opportunities to play for both the under-19 and under-21 Spanish squads. Spanish media reports suggest that Pitarch is keen to play for La Roja, but Morocco is determined to explore every avenue to secure his commitment.
The situation is causing “concerns” at the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), as they aim to avoid losing another talented player to Morocco. The RFEF reportedly offered Pitarch the chance to play in either the under-19 or under-21 squads during the recent international break, a “rare opportunity for an 18-year-old,” according to Spanish media. His close relationship with Brahim Diaz at Real Madrid adds another layer of complexity to the decision, as Diaz frequently discusses his positive experience with Morocco.
As of March 27, 2026, Pitarch remains undecided, and he is still eligible to play for Morocco until he makes his senior debut for Spain. The outcome of this international tug-of-war could have significant implications for both national teams, particularly as Morocco continues to build a competitive squad. The Spanish federation is acutely aware that “nothing is certain yet” in these situations.
Real Madrid’s schedule continues with a La Liga match against Celta Vigo on March 31, 2026. Reports indicate that Brahim and Thiago are expected to start in a 4-4-2 formation for Real Madrid in that match, as the team aims to close the four-point gap behind league leaders Barcelona following recent losses to Osasuna, and Getafe.
The situation with Pitarch highlights the increasing trend of players with dual nationality facing challenging choices about their international futures. For fans, it’s a reminder that the global game is about more than just club rivalries. it’s about national pride and the pursuit of sporting excellence on the world stage.
Next up for Thiago Pitarch is continued action with Real Madrid B, and potential call-ups to the Spanish youth national teams. The coming months will be crucial as he weighs his options and determines where his international career will unfold.
