Andria Bartishvili (2009)

Andria Bartishvili • 16-year-old attacking midfielder / left winger • Georgia

Andria Bartishvili is one of the most exciting young attacking prospects to emerge from Georgia in recent years. Officially listed at 170 cm earlier in his youth career, he has grown significantly during the 2025 season and now appears closer to 180 cm with a noticeably stronger physical frame.

A highly versatile attacker, Bartishvili can operate as a left winger, an advanced No. 8, or a No. 10 behind the striker. For a player of only sixteen, soon to be seventeen, his overall attacking profile is remarkably complete.

He combines very good pace with excellent ball control and an explosive first step. Bartishvili is particularly dangerous when driving forward with the ball at speed, shifting his body weight rapidly to keep defenders off balance while maintaining tight control. In confined spaces he shows quick two-footed touches, sharp turns, and an impressive repertoire of feints and dribbling moves.

His football intelligence stands out. Bartishvili consistently finds pockets of space to receive the ball between the lines, where he quickly turns and either drives forward himself or releases intelligent passes. His vision is advanced for his age, and although predominantly right-footed he uses his left foot comfortably, adding unpredictability to his play.

While capable of making runs in behind the defensive line, he is at his most influential when heavily involved in possession and allowed to progress the ball through carries.

Defensively, he is also unusually active for an attacking player. Bartishvili presses aggressively, reads passing lanes well, and frequently regains possession through interceptions or ground duels.

Areas for improvement

Given his attacking role, his statistical output must increase. With no goals and only one assist so far at senior level, his numbers do not yet reflect his influence on the pitch. However, with greater playing time and continued development this should improve naturally. As his physique continues to develop, improving his aerial presence would also add another dimension to his game.

Career trajectory and current form

Bartishvili is a product of the highly regarded Dinamo Tbilisi academy. In January 2025 he moved to FC Kolkheti-1913 in Poti and made his debut in the Georgian top division, the Erovnuli Liga.

Despite Kolkheti enduring a difficult season that ultimately ended in relegation, Bartishvili still managed to show flashes of his immense potential, playing 696 minutes across 16 appearances.

In January 2026 he joined reigning Georgian champions FC Iberia 1999 on loan. Early indications from preseason matches suggest he has already impressed the coaching staff and is pushing for a regular place in the starting lineup ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Transfer outlook

Bartishvili is widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation in Georgian football and has already drawn comparisons to fellow Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Interest from major European clubs is already emerging, with Juventus among the teams reportedly monitoring his development.

If he continues on his current trajectory and avoids serious injuries, Bartishvili possesses the technical quality, football intelligence, and attacking creativity to eventually reach the very highest level of European football.