Why Real Madrid Possess 'Total Trust' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage makes club history in a pivotal European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

He joined Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, 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 pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, every day you head to training and every day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with performances that have defied his youth and experience.

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," continued he. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

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

"He will keep receiving chances 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 Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

He possesses dual Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to represent both nations at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

His situation echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie 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 team pursue trophies to come.

After his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles 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 pitch," he commented after the win at Manchester.