Ninjas in Pyjamas is gearing up to revamp its Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) project, with plans to make substantial changes to its lineup. Recent reports suggest that the Swedish organization has taken a strategic approach by starting from the bench and building up from there, alongside retaining certain players for the team’s new iteration.
According to insights shared by Alejandro “anonimotum” Gomis, a journalist at Sheep Esports, Richard “Xizt” Landström has reached a verbal agreement with NiP to assume the role of the team’s new head coach.
Richard “Xizt” Landström: A Strategic Acquisition
Xizt is set to join Ninjas in Pyjamas at zero cost, having been teamless throughout 2024. The seasoned coach’s most recent experience was with Heroic, where he achieved notable success, including a runner-up finish at the Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Katowice and the Major in Rio de Janeiro.
As a coach, Xizt has clinched titles such as the Fall Finals and Spring Finals of 2023, organized by BLAST Premier, while leading the Danish squad. Landström’s journey in coaching began at Heroic, where he initially served as an analyst before transitioning into a coaching role following Nicolai “HUNDEN” Petersen’s departure.
The Imperative for Change
Xizt faces the imperative task of steering Ninjas in Pyjamas in a new direction. Following their failure to qualify for the historic Counter-Strike 2 Major in Copenhagen, the Swedish organization opted to retain only Fredrik “REZ” Sterner and Alejandro “ALEX” Masanet in the starting lineup.
In the interim, NiP turned to its academy roster to compete in pending tournaments while scouting for additional players. However, supplementing the team with academy players proved insufficient, particularly evidenced by their recent loss against Heroic in the BLAST Premier Showdown.
Xizt’s Return to Ninjas in Pyjamas
If confirmed, Xizt’s return to Ninjas in Pyjamas would not only mark a significant sporting acquisition but also hold emotional significance. Xizt, along with Patrik “f0rest” Lindberg and Christopher “GeT_RiGhT” Alesund, formed one of the longest-standing trios in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive history.
Landström was the first to be replaced, and the trio reunited for a final stint at Dignitas. Presently, f0rest is inactive, GeT_RiGhT has retired to pursue streaming, and Xizt would be the first to assume the coaching role at NiP.
Recommendations:
- Stay tuned for official confirmation from Ninjas in Pyjamas regarding Xizt’s appointment.
- Monitor the team’s performance and any potential roster changes following Xizt’s arrival.
- Consider the impact of Xizt’s coaching on NiP’s strategic approach and gameplay dynamics.
Conclusion
With Xizt’s potential return, Ninjas in Pyjamas aims to chart a new course for success in the competitive realm of Counter-Strike 2.