Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage makes club a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English champions in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.

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

He progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game 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 January.

Reports would later label the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment 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 meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you have a game," said the player following his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He is incredibly dynamic, with excellent endurance, effort and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform his normal game.

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

A Future International Decision

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 renowned youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, 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 yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his rise with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a decision in the near future."

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

Eyes on the Prize

At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the club pursue future success.

Following his notable contributions so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must earn my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Etihad Stadium.