The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Total Trust' in Teenager Pitarch
Whenever a teenage creates club history in a crucial Champions League tie against 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 Champions League winners claimed a 3-0 last-16 first-leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the qualifying round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped Los Blancos overcome the English champions in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight berth.
At 18 years old, the midfielder became the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vinicius Jr's previous mark by a week and a half.
A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy
The midfielder is the latest to emerge from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was during a friendly match in which they faced the senior squad, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, character and drive he added to the side.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
During the pre-season of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the senior squad and awarded him playing time in the warm-up matches.
Yet, 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 Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, each day you head to training and each day you play a match," stated the player following his first appearance.
"I have just fulfilled my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a starting debut in the Spanish league against his former club - where he was for four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the next four as injuries to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.
Pitarch has taken it with performances that have defied his age and experience.
"He's a very quick player, and you can see his capabilities," said the coach. "He's incredibly dynamic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.
"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the ball, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I realize people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete confidence in him to do what he usually does.
"He will continue to get opportunities with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before entering the club's renowned La Fabrica system.
He holds both Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the choice to play for either country at senior international level.
According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they appear in a competitive senior international match.
He has featured for Spain at underage levels, turning out for both the under-19 and under-20 sides, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.
Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his progress with keen attention.
Speaking recently, Pitarch said: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."
His situation echoes that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barcelona forward Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal chose Spain, Brahim opted to play for the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Manuel Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in younger players to aid the team chase trophies to come.
Following his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.
"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I have to deserve my minutes on the field," he commented after the win at Manchester.
