In January 2025, MOUZ unexpectedly benched their in-game leader, Kamil “siuhy” Szkaradek, after a single loss at the BLAST Bounty tournament. The decision shocked the community, especially since the team had been showing consistent results. The coach explained the change by citing “different views on the team’s development,” but for most fans, the explanation didn’t quite make sense.
He was replaced by Lotan “Spinx” Giladi, who had spent the previous three years playing for Team Vitality. During that time, the team earned over $2,500,000 in prize money, and Spinx solidified his status as one of the best riflers in the world. Despite his accolades, the community reacted critically to the transfer:
“LOL what a downgrade for MOUZ,” wrote Snajdan on HLTV.
“It’s not likely, but it’s possible,” wrote martin12165.
Some analysts were even puzzled by MOUZ’s decision, as the team wasn’t struggling. However, internally, the organization stated they were seeking a “new approach to the game” and felt changes were necessary for continued growth.
“This MOUZ team will do badly. Brollan is not an in-game leader, guys. I’ve never been told that and never heard [anything about] that. They will have a lot of difficulties this season. I almost just see this whole roster as a stop-gap before they get a new in-game leader in June or July” Mauisnake said in the BLAST broadcast.
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Siuhy’s trial with Team Liquid: reasons behind the move and Spinx’s arrival
Immediately after being benched by MOUZ, Kamil “siuhy” Szkaradek was offered a trial period with Team Liquid. It was a new opportunity for him to stay at the top level of competition and prove himself in a new environment. For Team Liquid, it was also a chance to refresh their roster after a string of disappointing tournament runs.
Meanwhile, MOUZ replaced siuhy with Lotan “Spinx” Giladi — the Israeli rifler known for his time with Vitality, where he won multiple big events and consistently showcased his individual skill. Swapping a captain for a star rifler seemed like a strategic move to revamp the team’s playing style.
MOUZ’s management explained the change as a necessary step to bring in fresh ideas and to balance individual talent with team discipline better. Spinx was expected to be the key to that transformation.
A new playstyle with Spinx and Brollan
Following the roster changes, Ludwig “Brollan” Brolin became the new in-game leader. He had to quickly adapt to the role, taking on not only gameplay responsibilities but also communication and tactical leadership. His confident, straightforward, and riskier approach became a defining feature of the new MOUZ era.
With Spinx onboard, the team began to play a more aggressive style. His confident entries, ability to win duels, and skill in creating space for his teammates allowed MOUZ to adjust to a new tactical framework. The team looked refreshed and more cohesive, with Spinx and Brollan forming the core of the rebuild.
The final outcome
Despite the initial criticism, MOUZ’s risky decision paid off. Many believed that replacing siuhy with Spinx was a gamble that could jeopardize the team’s future. But instead of falling apart, MOUZ not only maintained their competitiveness but also refreshed their identity, proving themselves as a team unafraid of bold moves for the sake of long-term growth.
History has shown that bold moves can deliver big results. In 2017, Natus Vincere’s in-game leader Danylo “Zeus” Teslenko joined Gambit and went on to win the PGL Major Kraków in a stunning fashion. In 2016, Astralis initially signed Finn “karrigan” Andersen as their IGL but later replaced him with Lukas “gla1ve” Rossander — a change that marked the beginning of the legendary “Astralis Era,” which included four Major titles and dominance on the global stage. However, there are also cautionary tales: in 2019, FaZe Clan attempted to compete without a clear in-game leader, which led to a year-long slump in performance.
MOUZ went all-in — and so far, it’s working. The team not only avoided collapse but also remained one of Europe’s top contenders. While challenges still lie ahead, they’ve shown that sometimes, to preserve stability, you must be willing to change. As proof of this, MOUZ secured 1st place at PGL Cluj-Napoca 2025 and took home $400,000 in prize money.
