The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Total Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

When an teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a pivotal Champions League tie against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.

During his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 last-16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young player, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to confirm a quarter-final place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the team's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

The midfielder is the latest to come through from the famed youth system and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most promising protegees.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe academies, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he quickly made a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and drive he added to the side.

'His Greatest Quality Remains His Character'

In the pre-season of 2025, former boss Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he came on as a second-half replacement in each leg against the Portuguese side that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I've dreamed of this every night when sleeping, the very first time I started playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I've just fulfilled my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

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

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

"He's a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He's extremely energetic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His greatest quality is his character," continued he. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he remains unfazed.

"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do his normal game.

"He will continue to get chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

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

He holds dual Moroccan and Spanish citizenship, giving him the option to represent both nations at the highest level.

Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a official full international.

He has played for Spain at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the last eight.

Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to either full national side, who are watching his rise with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is great with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion in the near future."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While 18-year-old Lamine chose Spain, Diaz decided to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

For now, Pitarch's focus is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying 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 tie with the German champions.

His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in younger players to help the club pursue future success.

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

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it excessively - I must earn my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the win at Manchester.