The Reason Los Blancos Possess 'Total Trust' in Youngster Pitarch
Whenever a teenage makes club a historic moment in a crucial Champions League tie against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and the spotlight.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the club - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the fifteen-time European champions secured a three-nil last-16 first leg lead at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also made his club debut in the play-off round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Sporting Lisbon, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to secure a last eight place.
Aged 18 years old, the midfielder became the club's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating Brazil forward Vini Jr's record by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise From La Fabrica
This talent is the most recent to come through from the famed youth system and is quickly establishing himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa's most exciting protegees.
He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico Madrid and Getafe 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 pre-season game in which they played against the academy's first team, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Spanish media would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding he excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the team.
'His Best Attribute Is His Character'
During the summer of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and gave him playing time during the warm-up matches.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the turning point in his development as he was introduced as a late substitute 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 first day I began playing football, every day you go to train and each day you have a game," stated the player after his debut.
"I have just achieved my dream with the best team in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a starting debut in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for four years after moving from Atleti in 2018 - he has kept his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opportunity.
Pitarch has seized it with performances that have defied his age and experience.
"He's a very quick player, and you can see what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's incredibly energetic, with excellent stamina, effort and movement."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.
"His greatest quality is his personality," added Arbeloa. "He constantly demands the possession, and when pressed, he doesn't feel it.
"I understand people are surprised to watch him make his debut in a Champions League match, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do his normal game.
"He will keep receiving chances with the main squad. It is delightful to coach a talent like him."
Spain or Morocco?
Pitarch was born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and grew up deeply involved in the local game, moving through local academies before entering Real Madrid's renowned youth academy.
He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, offering him the option to represent either country at the highest level.
According to international regulations, footballers may represent multiple nations at youth level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only final once they appear in a competitive full international.
He has played for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has yet to commit to any senior national team, who are watching his progress with interest.
Speaking recently, the player said: "I haven't made my final decision so far. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion soon."
His situation mirrors that of other dual nationality talents such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal. While teenage Yamal opted for La Roja, Diaz decided to play for the Atlas Lions.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding his manager's belief.
He played 74 minutes in the 2-1 win at City, which sealed a 5-1 aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Angel to emphasise Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the club pursue trophies to come.
After his notable contributions so far on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.
"The manager treats me the same. We deal with it very naturally. I attempt not to overanalyze it too much - I must deserve my playing time on the field," he said following the success at Etihad Stadium.
