In a recent YouTube interview, FaZe Clan owner Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira reflected on one of the biggest ‘what if’ scenarios in CS history — the possibility of signing s1mple in 2018. He also revealed many interesting details about the loan and the player himself.

The missed opportunity in 2018

Looking back, the FaZe owner clarified that he wasn’t the one pushing for s1mple at the time. In fact, his involvement with the esports side of the business wasn’t as deep back then. Still, he admitted that it would have been a game-changing decision if the deal had happened:

No, it wasn't my idea. I think in 2018, I wasn't as involved with the e-sports side. But wow, that would have been crazy if we did, you know.

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira

First impression of s1mple

Beyond the roster moves and speculation, the FaZe owner spoke warmly about his personal experience meeting s1mple. He emphasized the Ukrainian superstar’s charisma and character, saying he was surprised by how genuine and likable he turned out to be:

By the way, I love Sasha. Sasha is incredible guy. Like, I love him so much. I was blown away meeting him. Like, I was really surprised at how cool of a person he was.

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira

Why s1mple wasn’t the right fit

Despite his admiration for s1mple, the FaZe owner explained that signing him did not make sense with the roster they already had in place. It wasn’t about s1mple’s level, but about team balance and roles:

Like I said, I love Sasha. I would have loved, like everybody else, to see him in FaZe. It didn't make sense with the roster that we had… In a perfect world, I would have loved to see FaZe s1mple. Even earlier on… s1mple is FaZe, you know. Like, s1mple really is FaZe.

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira

One month with FaZe

The interview also touched on the short period when s1mple actually played for FaZe on loan. According to the owner, Sasha was brilliant in the group stages, showing flashes of his prime. However, the team as a whole underperformed in the playoffs. Still, his performance left a lasting memory:

I think he played amazing in the group stages. And I think… we all didn't play too well in playoffs. You got to see prime s1mple come out in some of those moments. The rematch versus Legacy was one I'll always remember.

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira

The cost of the loan

When asked about how much the short-term deal cost, the FaZe owner refused to go into financial details. However, he did deny the speculation about sky-high rental fees:

I can't get into the logistics behind that… No. (answering whether the loan exceeded $50,000 per month)

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira

Closing his remarks, the FaZe owner admitted how special it was to have s1mple wearing the FaZe jersey, even if just temporarily. He expressed hope that the Ukrainian star will soon return to the very top of Counter-Strike competition:

At least we got to see a very entertaining roster, and having Sasha play for FaZe during that time was really special. I hope that we get to see him back in Tier-1. Back where he belongs.

Thomas ‘Temperrr’ Oliveira