The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Utter Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal European tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

During his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English champions in the midweek return to secure a last eight berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through The Academy

This talent is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's academies, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

He worked his way up to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who replaced Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

During the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time during pre-season.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a second-half replacement in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I began playing football, each day you go to train and every day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his debut.

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

Given a first start in the Spanish league against Getafe - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with excellent endurance, work-rate and movement."

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

"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I understand people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to perform his normal game.

"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to have a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through youth setups before entering the club's renowned youth academy.

He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to play for both nations at the highest level.

Under international regulations, players may represent different countries at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they appear in a official senior international match.

Pitarch has played for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the quarter-finals.

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

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other dual nationality players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. While teenage Lamine chose La Roja, Diaz opted to play for Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.

He featured for 74 minutes in the two-one victory at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club chase future success.

After his impressive impact so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

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