Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch
When an 18-year-old creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.
In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions claimed a three-nil round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to secure a last eight berth.
Aged 18 years and 226 days, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy
The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He joined Real from CD Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe academies, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
He progressed to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.
Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'
During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him minutes during pre-season.
Yet, it was the change in manager that became the turning point in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and every day you have a game," said Pitarch after his debut.
"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."
Handed a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.
The teenager has taken it with displays that have defied his youth and experience.
"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate 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 when pressed, he remains unfazed.
"I realize fans might be surprised to watch him start in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform what he usually does.
"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, offering him the option to play for both nations at senior international level.
According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a official full international.
Pitarch has featured for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are watching his progress with keen attention.
Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a conclusion soon."
His situation mirrors 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 play for Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.
He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one win at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the club chase trophies to come.
Following his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, the midfielder is expected to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. 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 Etihad Stadium.
