Real Madrid is set to clash with Manchester City this Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 encounter. While Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad aims for a strong result to carry into the return leg at Etihad Stadium, they are widely considered underdogs, especially with key players like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe potentially sidelined for both fixtures.
Hopes for Jude Bellingham’s timely return for the Manchester City match appear slim. Although he might have an outside chance for the second leg in Manchester, his absence from Wednesday’s game is confirmed, opening up a crucial midfield position.
Fede Valverde, Arda Guler, and Aurelien Tchouameni are expected to start, raising questions about the fourth midfielder’s role. Eduardo Camavinga is a strong contender, having recently recovered from a tooth injury, but 18-year-old La Fabrica talent Thiago Pitarch is also a viable option.
Pitarch has made a significant impression on head coach Arbeloa, earning his first start in the win against Celta Vigo. He is increasingly seen as a permanent member of the first team, making a return to the club’s lower ranks improbable.
Pitarch’s UEFA Youth League Eligibility at Risk
In light of his progress, Pitarch’s potential ineligibility for the remainder of Real Madrid’s UEFA Youth League campaign might not significantly alter his trajectory. According to reports, the young midfielder would become ineligible for the Youth League if he makes one more Champions League appearance for the senior team, a scenario that could unfold this Wednesday against Manchester City.
UEFA rules stipulate that players featuring in three or more Champions League matches in a single season are barred from participating in the UEFA Youth League. Pitarch, who has already played in both legs of Real Madrid’s play-off round win against Benfica, is likely not prioritizing this concern, with his immediate focus squarely on contributing to the senior team’s successful end to the season.
