The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a 18-year-old makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European match against City, it naturally attracts praise and the spotlight.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

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

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent Through La Fabrica

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

He signed for Real from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster 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 stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I've dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the very first time I began playing the game, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.

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

Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as injuries to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can see his capabilities," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, work-rate and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be surprised to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do his normal game.

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

A Future International Decision

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

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

Under international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at youth level without being locked in, with the ultimate choice only final once they play in a official full international.

He has featured for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my final decision yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, Pitarch's focus is on making his mark 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 quarter-final matchup with the German champions.

He was replaced by another academy player in Angel underscored the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club chase future success.

After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he commented following the success at Manchester.