Real Madrid teen explains what playing at the Bernabéu feels like after Champions League home debut
Thiago Pitarch shared a vivid description after making his Bernabéu debut for Real Madrid against Benfica in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Dean Huijsen, Eder Militão, Dani Ceballos. Real Madrid were without a host of first-team stars for Wednesday’s Champions League playoff against Benfica, which meant there were some unfamiliar names on the bench at the Bernabéu, including that of young midfielder Thiago Pitarch.
A dream debut in the Champions League
The 18-year-old made his Madrid debut as a substitute in the final minute of the away leg in Portugal on February 17 before coming on for fellow academy product Gonzalo García for the last six minutes of the return game, his first ever appearance at the Bernabéu.
Álvaro Arbeloa’s team had just taken a 2-1 lead to move 3-1 ahead on aggregate, and Pitarch helped ensure there were no late slip-ups as Madrid progressed to the round of 16.
Inside the Real Madrid dressing room
After the game, Pitarch spoke to Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus and gave some eyecatching insight into what it’s like to be inside the Real Madrid dressing room and play a Champions League game at one of world soccer’s most iconic venues in front of almost 80,000 fans.
“It’s a dream. It feels like you’re wearing a virtual reality headset. Just a little while ago, you’re playing as them (Real Madrid players) on FIFA (EA Sports FC) and now you’re here with them. It’s the ultimate dream.”
More opportunities could be coming
With some big names set for a little longer on the sidelines, Pitarch may get more opportunities to live out his dream again in the coming weeks.
And if you’ve ever wondered what pulling on a Real Madrid jersey and playing a game at the Bernabéu is like, now you have a rough idea.
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