In a surprising turn of events, Nikita “Derke” Sirmitev has announced his departure from Fnatic, sending shockwaves through the Valorant community just days after the Champions 2024 tournament concluded.
The Reasons Behind the Move
On the heels of EDG’s victory at the Champions 2024, where they edged out Team Heretics in a thrilling 3-2 final, the Valorant scene was ready to settle into the offseason.
However, the calm was abruptly disrupted when Derke, one of Fnatic’s star playbers, revealed via his X (formerly Twitter) account that he is now a restricted free agent. This unexpected announcement has caused a significant stir among fans and professionals alike.
Derke’s Impact on Social Media
Derke’s post quickly gained massive traction, racking up over 1,000 replies, 3,000 reposts, and 19,000 likes within hours. The tweet has amassed over a million views, underlining the magnitude of his departure.
The Finnish duelists’ exit is particularly shocking, given his integral role in Fnatic’s Valorant team, where he has been a cornerstone since joining in April 2021. His contributions were pivotal in Fnatic’s multiple victories, including their status as two-time VCT EMEA champions.
What’s Next for Derke and Fnatic?
While Derke’s announcement has left many speculating about his next move, the situation also raises questions about Fnatic’s future lineup. According to the VCT Global Contract Database, Derke was under contract with Fnatic until 2025, making his sudden availability on the transfer market a significant development.
As the offseason begins with this bombshell, all eyes are on who will step in to fill Derke’s shoes at Fnatic and which team will secure one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming season.
Key Points to Consider:
- Derke’s tenure at Fnatic: Joined in April 2021, pivotal in securing multiple championships.
- Social media impact: Over 1 million views on his announcement tweet, showcasing the widespread reaction.
- Future moves: The Valorant community is eagerly waiting to see which team will sign Derke and who will replace him at Fnatic.
Conclusion
Derke’s unexpected departure from Fnatic marks the beginning of what promises to be an eventful offseason in the Valorant scene. As teams prepare for the next competitive cycle, Derke’s next destination will be a key storyline to follow.
Valorant Patch 9.04: Vyse Joins the Roster Amidst Numerous Bug Fixes