According to a report by GOAL on Wednesday November 4, 2026, Arsenal summer signing Andria Bartishvili is facing up to three months on the sidelines after suffering significant ankle ligament damage while playing on loan in Georgia.

The 17-year-old attacking midfielder is expected to miss between two and three months following the injury, which could rule him out for the remainder of the UEFA Conference League league phase.

Bartishvili is currently playing for Iberia 1999 after joining the Georgian club on loan from Kolkheti 1913.

According to reports, an MRI scan confirmed significant damage to his anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), with Iberia 1999 confirming the setback in a statement.

The club explained that the teenager would undergo several stages of treatment and rehabilitation, with the expectation that he would return before the end of the season.

The injury represents an unfortunate setback for Arsenal, who agreed a deal worth around £4 million to sign the youngster during the summer.

The Gunners reportedly beat competition from several clubs, including Liverpool, to secure his signature as part of their efforts to recruit some of Europe's most promising young talents.

Bartishvili had been gaining valuable experience in Georgia, including competing in the Conference League, but his injury will interrupt his development and delay his anticipated arrival in north London.

Despite the setback, Georgia Under-21 coach Ramaz Svanadze remains confident about the midfielder's potential.

Svanadze believes Bartishvili has the talent, mentality and determination to establish himself at the highest level, although he warned that adapting to the intensity of English football would be a major challenge.

The youngster has already made two appearances for Georgia's Under-21 team and had been tipped to earn a senior national team call-up in the near future.

If his recovery progresses as expected, Bartishvili will join Mikel Arteta's squad in the summer and hope to make his first appearance for Arsenal during pre-season.

For now, the Gunners will be hoping the teenager makes a full recovery and returns to action without further complications.