The Reason Real Madrid Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it naturally attracts praise and attention.

In only his maiden start in the tournament - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then helped Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to secure a quarter-final berth.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing Brazil forward Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

This talent 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 Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.

Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, 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 label the moment as "love at first sight," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his technical ability, but for the vitality, character and determination he brought to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

In the summer of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to practice with the first team and awarded him minutes during the warm-up matches.

However, it was the change in manager that proved the turning point in his career as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the clash with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, each day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated the player following his debut.

"I've just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the planet and in the best competition."

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

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

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

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his character," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are astonished to watch him make his debut 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 chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to have a talent like him."

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, progressing through local academies before joining Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

He possesses both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the choice to play for both nations at senior international level.

According to international regulations, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive full international.

He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

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

In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are 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 Barca star Yamal. While 18-year-old Yamal chose La Roja, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Real side and rewarding his manager's belief.

He played over an hour in the two-one win at City, which sealed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

His substitution by another academy player in Manuel Angel underscored the coach's confidence in the next generation to aid the club pursue future success.

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

"Arbeloa handles me the same. We deal with it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he said following the win at Etihad Stadium.