Saba Kharebashvili

Saba Kharebashvili: Georgia’s Emerging Wing-Back with Elite Potential

At just 17 years old, Saba Kharebashvili is already establishing himself as one of the most exciting young defenders in Georgian football. A versatile left-back with the ability to play across the back line and even in defensive midfield, Kharebashvili’s blend of physical attributes, tactical maturity and technical skill has made him a standout talent at FC Dinamo Tbilisi — and drawn attention from some of Europe’s elite clubs.

Early Breakthrough in Tbilisi and in the National Team

Born in Tbilisi, Georgia on September 3, 2008, Kharebashvili progressed through the Dinamo Tbilisi youth academy, a production line that has recently helped launch stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Giorgi Mamardashvili.

He made his senior debut in the Erovnuli Liga on April 26, 2024 at just 15 years, 7 months and 23 days old — becoming the youngest player in Dinamo Tbilisi history to feature in the Georgian top flight. In doing so he also set a record as the youngest Georgian to appear in a UEFA club competition.

In his first professional season, he became a regular starter, amassing over 40 appearances for the first team in league and cup competitions over 2024–25 and earning praise from coaches and analysts for his maturity and consistency.

Kharebashvili has represented Georgia at multiple youth levels — from U15 through U19 — and in June 2025 he made his senior debut for the Georgia national team, becoming one of the youngest players ever to do so at 16 years and nine months. This rapid integration into senior international football highlights both his technical ability and his tactical awareness, attributes that are rare for players of his age.

Strenghts and Weaknesses

Strenghts:

• Fierce in Duels: His height (1.84m tall) and timing allow him to compete effectively in aerial duels and defensive situations, with great anticipation sense.

• Ball Progression: Comfortable on the ball, he helps initiate attacks from deep, carrying possession forward or linking play with midfielders.

• Versatility: While predominantly a left-back, he can also fill in as a right-back or defensive midfielder, showcasing tactical adaptability.

• Composed Under Pressure: Despite his youth, his composure has led him to play consistently at a top level in Georgia.

Weaknesses:

• Dribbling: Don't expect him to dribble multiple opponents through the midfield. He is more of a non-nonsense type of player.

• Attacking contribution: Despite the large number of games played in a dominant Georgian team like Dinamo, he lacks assists and goals.

Interest From Europe’s Elite

Perhaps the most compelling sign of Kharebashvili’s potential is the growing interest from top European clubs. According to reports, giants such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Liverpool have all been monitoring his development, with Liverpool reportedly considering him as a long-term solution at left-back as they plan for the future.

Because Georgian players under 18 can only move abroad after they turn 18, any potential transfer is likely to be structured with a future move in mind — but the fact that Europe’s biggest clubs are already tracking him highlights the regard in which he is held.

Kharebashvili is part of a broader wave of Georgian prospects making a mark at home and attracting attention internationally. Dinamo Tbilisi’s academy has produced a stream of exports to Europe, and Kharebashvili’s rapid rise — from debuting at 15 to earning senior caps by 16 — reflects the strength of that development pathway.

In interviews summarized by Georgian media, he has spoken with humility about his journey, noting that his gradual progression through youth ranks and focus on Dinamo and national youth teams remain his priorities before considering moves abroad.

Conclusion: A Defender With a Bright Path Ahead

At an age when many players are still finding consistent minutes in youth football, Saba Kharebashvili has already become an essential starter in Georgia’s top division and debuted for his national team. With his physical attributes, left-footed balance, defensive intelligence and evolving technical game, he represents a modern full-back profile with significant upside.

As interest from elite European clubs grows and he continues to accumulate minutes in professional competition, Kharebashvili’s trajectory suggests that he could soon follow other Georgian talents into major European leagues — a journey that football fans and scouts alike will be watching closely.