According to a report by GOAL on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Arsenal summer signing Andria Bartishvili is set to spend up to three months out of action after sustaining serious ankle ligament damage while playing on loan in Georgia.

The 17-year-old attacking midfielder is expected to be sidelined for between two and three months, an injury that could prevent him from featuring again during the remainder of the UEFA Conference League league phase.

Bartishvili is currently representing Iberia 1999 after joining the Georgian side on loan from Kolkheti 1913.

Reports indicate that an MRI scan revealed significant damage to his anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), with Iberia 1999 confirming the injury in an official statement.

The club revealed that the youngster would undergo a series of treatment and rehabilitation programmes, expressing hope that he would recover in time to return before the end of the season.

The setback is an unfortunate development for Arsenal, who reached an agreement worth approximately £4 million to sign the talented midfielder during the summer transfer window.

The Gunners reportedly defeated competition from several clubs, including Liverpool, to secure his services as part of their strategy to recruit some of Europe's most promising young players.

Bartishvili had been benefiting from regular football in Georgia, including the opportunity to compete in the Conference League. However, the injury is expected to disrupt his progress and delay his planned move to north London.

Despite the setback, Georgia Under-21 manager Ramaz Svanadze remains optimistic about the teenager's long-term prospects.

Svanadze believes Bartishvili possesses the ability, mentality and determination required to succeed at the highest level. However, he also acknowledged that adapting to the physical demands and intensity of English football would present a significant challenge.

The youngster has already represented Georgia's Under-21 side on two occasions and was reportedly being considered for a senior national team call-up in the near future.

Provided his recovery goes according to plan, Bartishvili is expected to link up with Mikel Arteta's squad in the summer, with hopes of making his first Arsenal appearance during pre-season.

For now, Arsenal will be hoping the teenager completes his rehabilitation successfully, makes a full recovery and returns to competitive action without any further complications.