Why Los Blancos Have 'Complete Confidence' in Youngster Pitarch
When an teenage creates club history in a pivotal European tie against City, it inevitably draws praise and attention.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in Tuesday's return to secure a last eight berth.
At 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch became the club'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 La Fabrica
The midfielder is the latest to come through from the club's academy 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 and Getafe youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.
Pitarch worked his way up to the B team and it was during a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by the former defender, where the teenager is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced the previous coach in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," adding Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and drive he brought to the team.
'His Greatest Quality Is His Personality'
In the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him minutes in the warm-up matches.
However, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that set up the clash with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the first day I began playing football, each day you go to train and each day you play a match," stated the player after his debut.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."
Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for 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 taken it with displays that have defied his age and inexperience.
"He's a very quick footballer, and you can observe his capabilities," remarked the coach. "He's extremely dynamic, with great stamina, work-rate and mobility."
The player's mindset has also stood out to his manager.
"His standout trait is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.
"I realize people are surprised to see him start in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had total confidence in him to perform what he usually does.
"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It's a pleasure to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Born in Fuenlabrada, in the Madrid region, and grew up fully immersed in the local game, moving through youth setups before joining the club's famous youth academy.
He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, giving him the option to play for either country at senior international level.
According to international regulations, players may represent multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the final decision only final once they play in a official senior international match.
Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at youth level, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the last eight.
Despite this, he has yet to commit to any full national side, who are monitoring his rise with interest.
In a recent interview, the player confirmed: "I haven't made my final decision so far. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."
His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Brahim opted to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight matchup with the German champions.
His substitution by fellow youth graduate in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in the next generation to help the club pursue trophies to come.
Following his impressive impact so far on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to be a central figure in that.
"The manager handles me the same. We handle it very normally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the pitch," he commented following the win at Etihad Stadium.
