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

Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

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

He progressed to the B team and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and awarded him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against Benfica that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, each day you head to training and each day you have a game," stated Pitarch following his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Handed a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his character," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand 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 his normal game.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the choice to represent either country at senior international level.

According to Fifa eligibility rules, players may appear for different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He played over an hour in the two-one win at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

After his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Manchester.