The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a key Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final berth.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise From 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 promising young players.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to train with the first team and awarded him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

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

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

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

Pitarch has seized it with performances that have belied his youth and experience.

"He is a very quick footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with great endurance, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also stood out to his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total confidence in him to do what he usually does.

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

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive full international.

He has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club chase future success.

After his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he commented following the success at Manchester.