The differences between Real Madrid and Barça are deep, both on and off the field. In Barcelona, the atmosphere is usually more family-oriented, with a clear commitment to homegrown talent. La Masia has been, for years, the silent engine that has supported entire generations.
Xabi Alonso has arrived on the white bench with a very clear idea of what he needs. He is looking for a playmaking midfielder, someone to take over from Toni Kroos. However, the board has told him that there is no room to make more signings this summer.
Xabi Alonso bets on La Fábrica: there's no money, but there is homegrown talent
Far from getting frustrated, Xabi Alonso has decided to look inward to find solutions. In that exercise of observation, he has found something that has surprised him very positively. It was in Valdebebas where he came across a profile that, according to him, fits perfectly with what he is looking for.
This young talent's name is Thiago Pitarch, one of the most promising gems of La Fábrica. Although he is initially expected to play with the reserve team, the plan is for him to gradually join the first team's dynamics. His adaptation has been very positive and his first minutes in training have been excellent.
Thiago Pitarch, the midfielder who has won over Xabi Alonso in just a few weeks
Thiago stands out for his vision of the game, ability to distribute with precision, and composure under pressure. His style is reminiscent of classic midfielders: a playmaker, sober, and always well positioned. In addition, he has personality, something highly valued by Xabi Alonso.
Florentino Pérez has also taken note of the impact this young player has made in the sessions. There is still no firm decision about his definitive role, but expectations are high. Real Madrid may have found its new playmaker without having to spend a single euro.
La Fábrica keeps producing talent: Pitarch looks set to be the big surprise of the season
With Xabi Alonso in charge, Real Madrid's project wants to combine youth and experience more naturally. In that scheme, Thiago Pitarch fits perfectly. He is young, disciplined, talented, and has enormous room for improvement.
The reserve team coaches already knew about his potential, but it has been with the first team where he has made the leap in quality. His name is already circulating strongly in the halls of Valdebebas and those around the club are starting to talk about him with excitement.
Time will tell if he establishes himself at Santiago Bernabéu, but the truth is that he has started off on the right foot. For now, he has achieved the most difficult thing: catching Xabi Alonso's attention. That, at Real Madrid, says a lot.