Yesterday, Ninjas In Pyjamas announced significant changes to their roster. Assistant coach Fredrik “slap” Junbrant was moved to the bench just four months after joining the team. These changes draw attention to the inner workings of a team that appears to be looking to upgrade and find more successful combinations of players.

Slap has quickly become an important part of Ninjas In Pyjamas, and his departure raises many questions about the future of the team. Lineup changes are always interesting, as they can affect the dynamics of the game and results at upcoming tournaments. For a team that is struggling for stability, this move could prove to be both risky and justified.

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A brief history of slap in Ninjas In Pyjamas

Slap joined Ninjas In Pyjamas in May 2024 as an assistant coach. During this time, the team achieved several significant victories, but the management decided to change course. The key was the transfer of young player Gareth “MisteM” Ries from the academy to the main roster. Also brought in was Young Ninjas coach, Daniel “sprayxd” Kogan, who has proven to be an effective coach for the youngsters and has been instrumental in the development of the academy. These reshuffles meant there was no room for slap on the main coaching staff. NIP said in a press release that they are exploring options to find a new role for slap within the organization, but at this point his future remains uncertain.

Slap's emotions are one of disappointment and uncertainty

The departure from the lineup came as a big shock to slap. In his post on platform X, he expressed surprise and disappointment. “As you can see, NIP wants to keep MisteM and sprayxd as a duo. Surprised and disappointed. Unclear what the future holds,” slap wrote. His words reflect a deep emotional experience, because in such a short time he has made a significant contribution to the team and probably did not expect such an abrupt turn of events.

THREAT Decision

NIP's general manager, Björn “THREAT” Pers, explained the situation on his stream, describing exactly how the decision was made. He emphasized that the team was very happy with slap's performance, but the need to make room for sprayxd and the desire to try a bundle with MisteM forced them to take this step. “Slap has done a great job in the time it's been with us. It was a terribly difficult decision. He was really good, but we wanted to try a new combination with MisteM and sprayxd. That decision was made by Xizt and I fully support him,” THREAT revealed.

READ ALSO: Young Ninjas players open to transfers after MisteM's move to the main roster

Conclusion

These permutations could have a big impact on the future of the team. Ninjas In Pyjamas have been struggling to find a stable roster for several years now and the promotion of MisteM and sprayxd is a bet on young up-and-comers. At the same time, slap's departure leaves questions about what other changes may be coming to the team. The future of slap also remains uncertain, although NIP promise to find him a new role in the organization.

Source: Twitch