Why Real Madrid Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch

When an teenage creates Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial Champions League match against Manchester City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the club - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the fifteen-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil round of 16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also had his club debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a cameo off the bench at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted Los Blancos overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's second leg to confirm a quarter-final berth.

At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club's youngest player to begin two matches in the Champions League's latter rounds, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

A Meteoric Rise Through La Fabrica

This talent is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting young players.

He joined Madrid from CD Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in the new year.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "love at first sight," adding he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the team.

'His Best Attribute Remains His Character'

During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that became the defining moment in his career as he came on as a second-half replacement in both ties against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," said Pitarch after his first appearance.

"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the best competition."

Given a first start in the Spanish league against his former club - where he spent four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his place for the next four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos provided an opening.

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

"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."

The player's mindset has also impressed his coach.

"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.

"I understand people are astonished to see him start in a Champions League match, but he is selected because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up fully immersed in Spanish football, moving through youth setups before joining Real Madrid's famous youth academy.

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

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

Pitarch 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 La Roja reached the last eight.

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

Speaking recently, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I'll make a conclusion soon."

This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine chose La Roja, Brahim opted to play for Morocco.

Focus on the Future

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

He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which sealed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with Bayern Munich.

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

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

"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I attempt not to think about it excessively - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he commented following the win at Manchester.