Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Faith' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage makes Real Madrid history in a crucial European tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a last eight place.

At 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.

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

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in the new year.

Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and drive he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited the youngster to train with the first team and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

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

"I have just achieved my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he spent several seasons after arriving from Atleti in 2018 - he has retained his place for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.

The teenager has seized it with displays that have belied his youth and experience.

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

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

"His standout trait is his character," added he. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

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

"He will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It's a pleasure to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to represent either country at senior international level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may appear for multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.

Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.

Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to any senior national team, who are watching his rise with interest.

In a recent interview, the player said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas teenage Yamal chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with the German champions.

He was replaced by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club chase trophies to come.

After his impressive impact to date on the Champions League, 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 overanalyze it excessively - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.