Guy “NertZ” Iluz, the Israeli rifler, is reportedly preparing to leave HEROIC and join Team Liquid following an agreement between the two parties, as reported by Alejandro “anonimotum” Gomis. This transition comes shortly after Liquid announced the departure of Mareks “YEKINDAR” Gaļinskis, signaling a significant shift in the team’s lineup.

This move would mark NertZ’s second transfer in two years if finalized. He joined HEROIC last December after the core of ENCE was acquired by Falcons. During his tenure with HEROIC, NertZ maintained an average LAN rating of 1.13 (0.74 kills per round) over 162 maps. While HEROIC’s struggles dampened his overall performance earlier in the year, his numbers improved notably after the team added Abdul “degster” Gasanov during the summer break. Over 81 maps since the roster update, NertZ averaged a 1.19 rating and 0.78 KPR, contributing to HEROIC’s resurgence, including a semi-final finish at IEM Rio, runner-up spots at Elisa Masters Espoo and Thunderpick World Championship, and a hard-fought quarter-final appearance at the Shanghai Major.

NertZ’s inclusion is expected to bolster Liquid’s firepower, providing a strong replacement for the underperforming YEKINDAR. However, uncertainties remain about how NertZ will fit into the team’s structure and whether Liquid plans additional changes to its roster during the off-season.

This roster shake-up also opens strategic possibilities for Liquid regarding Major qualification. The team could aim to qualify through the Asia region if Australian player Justin “jks” Savage stays on, or through the Americas with Canadian players Keith “NAF” Markovic and Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken. This flexibility hinges on whether adjustments to the 2025 Major qualification rules are made.

If the transfer proceeds as expected, Liquid’s lineup would be as follows:

  • Keith “NAF” Markovic (Canada)
  • Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken (Canada)
  • Justin “jks” Savage (Australia)
  • Roland “ultimate” Tomkowiak (Poland)
  • Guy “NertZ” Iluz (Israel)

 

The team would continue under coach Torbjørn “mithR” Nyborg, with YEKINDAR moving to the bench. This anticipated addition could significantly enhance Liquid’s competitiveness in the upcoming season while allowing NertZ to shine in a new environment.