Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage creates club a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against Manchester City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

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

He worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes during the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," said Pitarch after his first appearance.

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

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

"He's a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His greatest quality is his character," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are astonished to see him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to represent either country at the highest level.

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Diaz opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the two-one victory at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, the midfielder is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.