According to a report by London Evening Standard on Wednesday November 4, 2026, Andria Bartishvili, a potential new signing for Arsenal, has suffered an injury setback after tearing a ligament in his ankle.

Two or three months will likely pass before the 17-year-old Georgian attacker returns to action. This new information is coming just before his summer 2019 relocation to north London.

The injury was confirmed by Iberia 1999 after the youngster had the problem in Georgia. Journalist Simon Collings subsequently brought attention to reports that were first shared by the Geo team. Bartishvili has continued to gain senior football experience while on loan at Iberia 1999 from Kolkheti 1913.

The promising attacker and Arsenal came to an agreement earlier this year in the form of a pre-contract. The deal is set to go into effect in July 2027, when he reaches the age of 18 and can legally move.

Attacking midfielder or winger are two positions in which Bartishvili excels. His goal-scoring and assist-adding prowess has helped him advance through the ranks of Georgia's youth national teams, including the under-21 squad.

He may be out for the rest of the year due to his recovery period. His chance to improve upon his previous performances and gain experience before winter break will be ruined by his absence. How he reacts to rehabilitation, though, will determine the full extent of the setback.

Following Bartishvili's arrival, Arsenal will likely ease him into the starting lineup. Upon arriving in England, he will most likely start his football career with the academy or under-21 squads.

At this time, it appears that neither the agreement nor the anticipated timing of his transfer have been affected by the injury.

The Georgian clubs will oversee Bartishvili's rehabilitation since he is contracted with them until 2027. Before inviting him to the club, Arsenal will keep an eye on how he's doing.

The teen hopes to get back in shape before moving on to the next phase of his development in north London, so a speedy recovery is a must.