Brazilian veteran Fernando "fer" Alvarenga might play at the IEM Cologne Major 2026 with Gaimin Gladiators. According to media reports, fer is set to replace João "felps" Vasconcellos in the starting lineup. Dust2.com.br reports that the player is considered the primary option for substitution before the tournament begins.
fer to replace felps
Interestingly, even though felps was registered by the deadline, he will still receive Major stickers, even if he doesn't participate in the matches. The decision to make the substitution was reportedly initiated by the organization itself.
Return after a long break
For fer, this could mark his first appearance at a tier-1 level in over three years.
His last major tournament was in 2022 with Imperial, and his last official match was in 2024 for O PLANO during the Major qualifiers.
The 34-year-old player is already training with the team, confirming the club's serious intentions.
Lineup for the Major
If the substitution happens, Gaimin Gladiators will compete in Cologne with the following lineup:
- Jhonatan "JOTA" Willian
- Gabriel "NEKIZ" Schenato
- Henrique "HEN1" Teles
- Luca "Luken" Nadotti
- Fernando "fer" Alvarenga
Coach: João "horvy" Horvath
The potential return of fer to the Major is one of the most intriguing stories leading up to IEM Cologne 2026.
If the transfer is confirmed, it will be an opportunity for the veteran to showcase his skills at the highest level once again, and for Gaimin Gladiators, it could be a risky yet potentially strong reinforcement ahead of the season's main tournament.
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