Why Real Madrid Possess 'Utter Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes club a historic moment in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have defied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving chances with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining the club's famous La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the option to play for either country at senior international level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either senior national team, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the club chase trophies to come.

Following his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Manchester.