The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage makes Real Madrid history in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

This talent is the latest to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him minutes in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," stated Pitarch following his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

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

The teenager has seized it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

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

"I realize fans might be surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

"He will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.

According to international regulations, footballers may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official full international.

He has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Diaz opted to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club pursue trophies to come.

After his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

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