G2 Esports have officially announced the signing of new players and coaches, completing a long-awaited rebuild after the NiKo era. As a result of a dramatic transfer window, the following names have joined the organization:
- Matúš “MATYS” Šimko (ex-fnatic)
- Álvaro “SunPayus” García (ex-HEROIC)
- Eetu “sAw” Saha (head coach, ex-HEROIC)
- Mikael “sheddaN” Mellström (coach, previously worked with sAw in HEROIC)
This is not just a new chapter in G2’s history — it’s a radical shift in strategy for an organization trying to redefine itself after losing multiple world-class leaders and stars.
G2 IS SO BACK pic.twitter.com/8MSxCIn8mQ
— G2 CS (@G2CSGO) July 18, 2025
Background: The collapse of the old order
The past 12 months have been among the most turbulent in G2’s history. In December 2024, the team’s superstar Nikola “NiKo” Kovač departed. Shortly afterward, G2 also parted ways with Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov, while Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski and Wiktor “TaZ” Wojtas were moved to the bench. At the beginning of the year, G2 were ranked second in both the HLTV and VRS rankings. By the summer, they had dropped to 11th and 10th place, respectively.
Despite reaching the final of PGL Major Bucharest 2025 — where they fell to donk and Team Spirit — the internal situation in the team clearly called for drastic change.
New faces: Who and why?
Matúš “MATYS” Šimko
The 23-year-old Slovak spent the last year at fnatic, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising riflers. Known for his aggressive style, mechanical precision, and clutch potential, his signing is a clear bet by G2 on a rising star.
Álvaro “SunPayus” García
One of the most consistent AWPers in recent years, SunPayus has made his way from Movistar Riders to ENCE and most recently HEROIC. In G2, he will become the primary sniper, expected to fill the void left by m0NESY’s departure.
Eetu “sAw” Saha
A proven tactician who guided ENCE and HEROIC to the top level of competition. Known for his analytical approach and ability to build team structures from scratch, sAw will have full control over G2’s strategic direction.
Mikael “sheddaN” Mellström
Former analyst and assistant coach at HEROIC, where he worked alongside sAw. His role will focus on infrastructure, opponent preparation, and scouting — aiming to replicate the success of their previous collaboration.
huNter- takes over as IGL
The most notable internal change is Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač stepping into the in-game leader role. It’s a bold move, considering huNter- has traditionally been a fragger rather than a shot-caller. But under G2’s new direction, he is expected to bridge the gap between the old core and the new era, bringing experience and balance to a young squad.
Full G2 roster for the season
- Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač — IGL, entry/support
- Mario “malbsMd” Samayoa — aggressive rifler
- Nikita “HeavyGod” Martynenko — rifler/anchor
- Matúš “MATYS” Šimko — star rifler
- Álvaro “SunPayus” García — AWP
Coaching staff:
- Eetu “sAw” Saha — head coach
- Mikael “sheddaN” Mellström — assistant coach
Bench:
- Janusz “Snax” Pogorzelski — benched
Community reaction: Divided opinions
The announcement instantly sparked a storm of reactions across social media. Some fans were thrilled, others confused and frustrated.
Analysts and team reactions:
- @heroicgg — “No fucking way”
- @redbullgaming — “WE ARE SO BACK!”
Fan comments:
- @31ØJL: “Tier 2 ”
- @wujfester: “Ok this is trash but gl gl”
- @ForgFromFinland: “It’s 3 AM and this sAw stuff is crazy”
- @Kub4N000: “G2 champions of StarLadder Budapest Major?”
- @PrzemekHubacz: “Last year as a G2 fan was really nice experience with great memories. But that’s it. It’s time to find a new team which I will support. Thanks for everything.”
These comments reflect a clear split in community sentiment: some see untapped potential in the new roster, while others mourn the loss of G2’s former identity and individual firepower.
A new path — or a new pitfall?
As we enter the second half of 2025, G2 are a team that has rebuilt everything — the roster, the coaching staff, the internal philosophy. There’s no NiKo, no superstar AWPer, no familiar “championship core.” But there is something else: the courage to start fresh.
The only question that remains: will it be enough to climb back into the world’s top 5? The answer will come soon — the team’s debut at the next big LAN will be the first test of the new G2 era.
