Why Real Madrid Have 'Total Faith' in Youngster Pitarch

Whenever a teenage creates Real Madrid history in a key European match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim 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 three-nil round of 16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek return to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, Pitarch became the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From La Fabrica

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 promising protegees.

He signed for Real from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he quickly made a strong impression.

He progressed to the reserve side and it was in a pre-season game in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.

Spanish media 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 vitality, character and determination he brought to the side.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'

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

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against the Portuguese side that set up the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing football, every day you go to train and each day you play a match," said the player after his debut.

"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

Handed a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.

The teenager has taken it with performances that have belied his youth and inexperience.

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked Arbeloa. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His greatest quality is his personality," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.

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

A Future International Decision

Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, progressing through local academies before entering Real Madrid's famous La Fabrica system.

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

Under Fifa eligibility rules, footballers may represent different countries at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has featured for Spain at youth level, representing both the U19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja reached the quarter-finals.

Despite this, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with keen attention.

Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I'll make a decision soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other dual nationality players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine opted for La Roja, Brahim decided to represent the Atlas Lions.

Focus on the Future

At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying his manager's belief.

He played 74 minutes in the two-one victory at the Etihad, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a quarter-final tie with Bayern Munich.

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

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

"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I must earn my playing time on the pitch," he said after the win at Manchester.