Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho plans to reintegrate academy midfielder Tiago Pitacci into the first-team squad after the youngster impressed for Real Madrid Castilla and the Spanish youth national team during the international break, according to Diario AS.
Pitacci had gone 73 days without playing and, despite being cleared to compete, had not appeared for a minute. He was also left out of the Spain Under-21 squad, but that opened the way for him to spend the three-week first-team break gaining match practice with Real Madrid Castilla.
The club agreed the plan with Mourinho, deciding Pitacci would rebuild his rhythm in competitive matches rather than training at Valdebebas. He assisted Yanez in the 1-1 draw with Sant Andreu, although he was short of match fitness, before playing in the 2-1 defeat by Alcorcon.
He then received an unexpected call-up to the Spain Under-20 squad. Pitacci started against Mexico and scored with his left foot from outside the area to put Spain 2-0 ahead.
Only 45 minutes were arranged for him in that friendly, allowing him to start for Real Madrid Castilla against Atletico Madrid B at the Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium. The plan was agreed with Paco Gallardo and the Spanish Football Federation through the clubs’ relationship with the federation.
Pitacci responded with an outstanding derby performance. He covered large areas of the pitch, regularly moved into the opposition half and combined defensive recoveries with powerful forward runs. Although he did not score, he repeatedly looked for opportunities and operated more like an attacking midfielder than a conventional central midfielder.
Gallardo described the display as “a spectacular performance”.
“He proved what kind of player he is. But he hasn’t just proven it today; he’s been proving it for a long time in the Primera Federacion and the Champions League,” he said.
“We must commend Tiago for returning with such enthusiasm, despite having barely trained and dealing with injuries during his first-team preseason. He came back with the same hunger I saw when I coached the B-team or worked in youth leagues. This kid played a physically demanding match, controlling many areas of the pitch. Just looking at the distance he covered, it was a spectacular performance.”
Lopez-De Lerma said Pitacci’s motivation required no extra encouragement, despite his temporary return from the senior squad.
“I know he would play this match as if it were his last,” he said. “Working with Tiago is straightforward. I know his effort and competitive drive will always be there. That said, playing for Real Madrid’s first team is never easy. But he has proven his ability and potential.”
Pitacci had also played in a more advanced role for Spain in Majadahonda. He was the leading assist provider at the European Under-19 Championship, which Spain won, and has generally looked more incisive and closer to goal when representing Spain or Real Madrid Castilla.
Mourinho watched his performance against Atletico Madrid B from the stands and now intends to bring him back into the first team. The Portuguese coach had previously blocked a nearly completed move to Fulham after receiving strong scouting reports on Pitacci.
A knee injury suffered in his first training session prevented Mourinho from assessing him initially. Pitacci was later included in squads against Inter Milan, Rayo Vallecano, Elche and Atletico Madrid but did not play. After his performances during the break, Mourinho has now seen the impact the youngster can make when given trust and an opportunity.
