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

Whenever a 18-year-old makes club history in a pivotal Champions League match against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 round of 16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became 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 From The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most promising protegees.

He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe youth teams, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in the new year.

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

'His Greatest Quality Is His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up the youngster to practice with the senior squad and awarded him minutes in pre-season.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

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

"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said the coach. "He's incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I realize people are surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may appear for different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a official full international.

He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.

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

In a recent interview, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice so far. My situation is positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

His situation echoes that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim decided to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

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

He was replaced by another academy player in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue trophies to come.

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

"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the pitch," he commented after the success at Manchester.