Why Real Madrid Possess 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial Champions League match against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder was the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.

He joined Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

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

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Alonso invited the youngster to train with the senior squad and gave him playing time during pre-season.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his career as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

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

"I've just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

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

"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He is extremely energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also stood out to his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are astonished to see him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

A Future International Decision

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

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

Under international regulations, footballers may appear for different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

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

He featured for over an hour in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 overall triumph and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he said after the success at Etihad Stadium.