FaZe Clan finds itself at a crossroads. After experiments with s1mple and a temporary AWPer, the team is once again considering bringing broky back into the fold. But is this truly the right decision, and what other changes are necessary for FaZe to become a serious contender for Major titles again?
What Could broky’s Return Bring?
Bringing back broky could provide FaZe with stability and predictability in the AWP role. His playing style fits seamlessly into karrigan’s flexible system: he can operate both aggressively and passively, depending on the team’s needs. His synergy with the captain and familiarity with FaZe’s structure would make his reintegration smooth. Broky brings composure, rarely makes critical mistakes, and can maintain a consistent level even in tough matches.
The issue, however, lies in his limited carry potential. Broky is not the player who can single-handedly drag the team across the finish line or produce “magic” performances in decisive stages. His impact tends to drop in semifinals and finals, precisely when FaZe needs someone capable of swinging the momentum alone.
Why Changes Are Still Necessary
Even with broky’s return, FaZe’s deep-rooted tactical issues remain. The main one is the misutilization and stylistic mismatch of EliGE. Right now, he’s forced to fill roles as entry, second entry, sometimes even lurker and anchor—none of which allow him to shine to his full potential.
In an ideal lineup, EliGE would be a pure, explosive entry fragger like he was in his best Liquid days. FaZe, however, plays a different brand of Counter-Strike. The team needs a cooler, more disciplined rifler—someone who can slot into lurk and anchor roles without demanding space or star power.
EliGE Replacement Options
b1t is a NAVI player who came through the B1ad3 system and the NAVI Junior academy. His style, positioning, and role distribution are remarkably similar to ropz. b1t is a cold-blooded rifler with elite aim and the discipline to thrive in structured systems. However, this transfer is impossible: b1t is a key figure in NAVI’s core, and the organization is highly unlikely to let him go.
NertZ currently plays for Liquid and, despite the team’s overall poor results, continues to perform at a high level individually. NertZ brings impact, aggression, and composure in equal measure. His ability to switch between entry and lurk roles would add versatility to FaZe’s setup. He fits stylistically and could strengthen both offense and defense.
xfl0ud had a strong year with Eternal Fire but found himself benched after nilo joined Heroic’s main roster. Despite this, xfl0ud’s performances remained solid across the board. He can play anchor roles or supportive positions on T-side without demanding excessive resources. In FaZe, he could become the quiet, reliable piece who does the dirty work unnoticed but effectively.
skullz already stood in for FaZe during IEM Dallas, replacing rain, but struggled in that brief showing. However, it’s too early to completely write him off. In a different role, with time to adapt and under karrigan’s leadership, skullz might yet unlock his potential over the long term. The question is whether FaZe is willing to invest the necessary time and patience.
What Role Does FaZe Need?
FaZe needs a rifler who can comfortably and reliably play lurker and closer roles, make smart decisions in clutch situations, and handle anchor duties on defense. This player should be capable of stepping up when needed without demanding constant resources or spotlight—unlike the current setup with EliGE. This person must be the “glue” who holds the team’s structure together while allowing FaZe’s stars to shine.
Final Thoughts
Bringing back broky offers FaZe a breath of stability, but it alone won’t be enough to reclaim the top. Without replacing EliGE with a player who fits better into the team’s philosophy and role distribution, FaZe risks remaining in the “almost top” tier.
The ideal solution would be to sign NertZ. If that’s not feasible, a more accessible but reliable option like xfl0ud should be considered. Any replacement must be carefully planned and strategically sound. If FaZe wants to once again become a championship-winning powerhouse, the team must dare to make bold but logical moves.
