The Reason Los Blancos Have 'Utter Confidence' in Teenager Pitarch

When an 18-year-old creates club history in a key European match against Manchester City, it naturally attracts acclaim and the spotlight.

In only his first start in the tournament - and fifth appearance for the team - the young midfielder suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions claimed a three-nil last-16 first-leg advantage at the Bernabeu.

The teenager, who also made his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted the Madrid side overcome the English champions in the midweek second leg to confirm a last eight place.

Aged 18 years old, the midfielder was the club's most youthful starter to start twice in the Champions League's latter rounds, beating star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.

Rapid Ascent From The Academy

This talent is the latest to emerge from the club's academy and is rapidly cementing himself as one of the manager's most exciting young players.

He signed for Real from Leganes in 2023, having formerly spent time at Atletico and Getafe's youth teams, and starting out for the under-19 side, where he rapidly created a strong impression.

Pitarch worked his way up to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they faced the academy's first team, then managed by the former defender, where the youngster is said to have caught the attention of the current Real boss, who took over from the previous coach in January.

Spanish media would later label the moment as "an instant connection," noting Pitarch stood out not only for his skill on the ball, but for the vitality, personality and drive he added to the side.

'His Best Attribute Is His Character'

During the pre-season of 2025, former boss Alonso called up Pitarch to practice with the first team and gave him playing time in the warm-up matches.

Yet, it was the change in manager that proved the defining moment in his development as he came on as a late substitute in both ties against Benfica that set up the meeting with Manchester City.

"I have dreamed of this each night before going to bed, the very first time I started playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you have a game," said the player after his debut.

"I have just achieved my ambition with the greatest club in the world and in the best competition."

Given a starting debut in La Liga against his former club - where he spent four years after arriving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his spot for the next four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Ceballos created an opening.

Pitarch has taken it with displays that have belied his age and experience.

"He is a extremely fast footballer, and you can observe what he's capable of," remarked the coach. "He is incredibly energetic, with great endurance, effort and movement."

Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his manager.

"His standout trait is his character," added Arbeloa. "He always wants the possession, and even under pressure, he remains unfazed.

"I realize fans might be astonished to watch him start in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to perform what he usually does.

"He will keep receiving opportunities with the main squad. It is delightful to have a player like him."

Spain or Morocco?

Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Spanish capital's community, and was raised deeply involved in Spanish football, moving through local academies before joining the club's renowned La Fabrica system.

He holds both Moroccan and Spanish nationality, offering him the option to represent either country at the highest level.

According to international regulations, players may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being locked in, with the final decision only final once they appear in a competitive senior international match.

He has played for Spain at underage levels, representing both the under-19 and U20 sides, and took part in the 2025 Youth World Cup, where Spain reached the last eight.

Despite this, he has not yet decided to any full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.

Speaking recently, Pitarch confirmed: "I haven't made my ultimate choice so far. Things are great with Spain, but I will reach a decision soon."

This scenario echoes that of other bi-national talents such as Real team-mate Diaz and Barca star Yamal. While teenage Yamal chose La Roja, Brahim decided to represent Morocco.

Eyes on the Prize

At present, his attention is on making his mark in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.

He played over an hour in the 2-1 victory at City, which completed a five-one overall triumph and a last-eight tie with Bayern Munich.

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

After his notable contributions to date on the Champions League, Pitarch is tipped to play a key role in that.

"Arbeloa treats me the identical way. We handle it very normally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to earn my minutes on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.