The Reason Real Madrid Have 'Total Trust' in Teenager Pitarch
When an 18-year-old makes Real Madrid history in a crucial Champions League match against City, it inevitably draws acclaim and attention.
In only his first start in the competition - and fifth game for the team - the young midfielder made a strong impression as the 15-time Champions League winners secured a 3-0 round of 16 first-leg advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The young player, who also made his club debut in the qualifying round a month ago with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then helped the Madrid side overcome the English Premier League side in the midweek return to secure a quarter-final berth.
Aged 18 years and 226 days, Pitarch was the club's most youthful starter to begin two matches in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vinicius Jr's record by a week and a half.
Rapid Ascent Through The Academy
The midfielder is the most recent to come through from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting protegees.
He signed for Real from Leganes in the summer of 2023, having previously been with Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and initially featuring for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a positive impact.
Pitarch progressed to the B team and it was in a pre-season game in which they played against the senior squad, then coached by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the present manager, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "love at first sight," adding Pitarch excelled not only for his skill on the ball, but for the energy, character and determination he added to the side.
'His Best Attribute Remains His Personality'
In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Alonso called up Pitarch to train with the first team and gave him playing time in pre-season.
Yet, it was Arbeloa's appointment that became the turning point in his development as he came on as a late substitute in each leg against Benfica that led to the meeting with Manchester City.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing football, every day you head to training and each day you play a match," said Pitarch following his first appearance.
"I've just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the world and in the top tournament."
Given a first start in La Liga against his former club - where he was for several seasons after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the following four as fitness issues to Bellingham and Ceballos created an opportunity.
Pitarch has taken it with performances that have belied his age and experience.
"He is a extremely fast player, and you can see his capabilities," remarked Arbeloa. "He is incredibly energetic, with great stamina, work-rate and movement."
The player's mindset has also impressed his manager.
"His standout trait is his character," continued Arbeloa. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I understand fans might be astonished to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he is selected because I had total trust in him to do what he usually does.
"He will continue to get chances with the main squad. 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 entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He holds dual Spanish and Moroccan citizenship, giving him the option to represent both nations at senior international level.
Under Fifa eligibility rules, players may represent multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only binding once they play in a competitive full international.
He has played for the Spanish national team at youth level, turning out for both the U19 and under-20 teams, and took part in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where Spain made it to the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are monitoring his rise with keen attention.
In a recent interview, Pitarch confirmed: "I have not taken my ultimate choice yet. My situation is great with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a conclusion in the near future."
His situation mirrors that of other bi-national players such as club colleague Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Lamine opted for Spain, Diaz opted to represent Morocco.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, his attention is on establishing himself in the Real side and repaying Arbeloa's faith.
He featured for over an hour in the 2-1 win at City, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.
He was replaced by another academy player in Angel to emphasise the coach's confidence in younger players to help the club pursue trophies to come.
After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to play a key role in that.
"Arbeloa handles me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to overanalyze it too much - I must earn my minutes on the field," he said following the win at Etihad Stadium.
