After an unexpected success at IEM Cologne, SAW failed to maintain its position at the top level, forcing the organization to reconsider the team's roster. Less than a month before the RMR, SAW announced the parting of ways with coach Danny “BERRY” Krueger and player Rafael “arrozdoce” Wing. They were replaced by André “Ag1l” Gil, who has already joined the team to prepare for the ESL Challenger Katowice 2024 and the upcoming qualification for the Major in Shanghai.
In an interview with HLTV after the team reached the Katowice 2024 playoffs, experienced SAW player Ricardo “roman” Oliveira commented on the not-so-friendly parting of ways with arrozdoce. He emphasized that although arrozdoce performed well individually, the team needed changes to improve the atmosphere and teamwork.
“arrozdoce was a very good individual player, but we needed someone who could fit the team's style even better. Ag1l was an obvious choice because he already knew our guys and plays a similar style,” said roman.
Changes in the lineup before big events
Roman also shared that SAW chose this tournament as a preparatory tournament before the RMR in Shanghai. The team has had several training sessions with Ag1l, and he is already showing great interaction with the team. “Our goal is to prepare for the RMR, and this tournament serves as a platform for us to adapt the new squad,” said Roman.
Further goals and 2025
SAW aims not only to qualify for the Major, but also to stay high in the rankings to participate in more tournaments next year. Ending the year on a positive note will help them maintain their place on the international stage, where there will be fewer open qualifiers and the ranking distribution of invitations will be decisive.
SAW's expectations and hopes for Ag1l
Roman noted that Ag1l is a “perfect” substitute for arrozdoce, and the team is ready for the challenge. “Our main focus is to show the best result at this tournament and use the positive momentum for future events,” he added. SAW remain determined to win Katowice 2024 and are eager to succeed in the rest of the season.
Source: HLTV
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