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

Whenever a teenage creates club history in a crucial European match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a last eight berth.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From The Academy

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 promising protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

He progressed to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'

In the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing football, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.

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

Handed a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and mobility."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

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

"I understand people are surprised to see him make his debut 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 is delightful 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 the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a official full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either senior national team, who are watching his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to aid the club pursue future success.

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

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.