Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica

The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, 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 January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the team.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.

"I've just achieved my dream with the best team in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a very quick player, and you can observe his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He always wants the ball, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to do his normal game.

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

A Future International Decision

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

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, offering him the option to play for either country at the highest level.

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

He has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.

In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz opted to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue future success.

Following his impressive impact to date 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 naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the field," he commented after the success at Etihad Stadium.