The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club a historic moment in a crucial European tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

During his maiden start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side defeat the English champions in Tuesday's return to confirm a last eight berth.

At 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

He signed for Madrid from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was during a pre-season game 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 current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

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

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes in pre-season.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each 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," said the player after his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the planet and in the top tournament."

Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent four years after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

Pitarch has taken it with performances that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He's a very quick player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

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

Under international regulations, players 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.

Pitarch has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are great with Spain, but I'll make a decision soon."

His situation mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Brahim decided to play for the Atlas Lions.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.

He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the team pursue future success.

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very normally. I try not to overanalyze it excessively - I must deserve my minutes on the pitch," he said following the win at Etihad Stadium.