Worlds 2021 has concluded, and Edward Gaming are the new champions. The offseason is in full swing, and teams around the globe are strengthening their squad in hopes of a brighter future. Team Liquid from North America has assembled what many consider a super team by adding three new star players. However, with a new star-studded lineup, will this finally be the year where a North American squad tastes international glory?
New beginnings
After going 3-3 in Group Stage, Team Liquid failed to qualify for the knockout phase of Worlds 2021. Although they had a strong showing, it wasn’t enough at the end. The rumours regarding a roster overhaul started to surface as soon as Worlds ended, and most of it came true. After letting go Alphari, Tactical and Jensen, Team Liquid has signed Bjergsen, Bwipo and Hans Sama.
Once Worlds ended, it became clear that Barney “Alphari” Morris was leaving the team. Despite being the best top laner in LCS by a margin, his fallout with the Liquid’s management was apparent throughout the season. That said, Team Liquid has replaced Alphari with Gabriël “Bwipo” Rau, who has consistently been one of the best top laners in LEC.
After a stellar Worlds 2021, Steven “Hans Sama” Liv was a sought-after commodity. He has consistently been regarded as one of the best AD Carries in the west despite not winning major trophies. Once Team Liquid parted ways with Edward “Tactical” Ra, they immediately pounced on the opportunity to sign Hans Sama. Hence, the 22 years old will be the starting AD Carry for Team Liquid and pair up with Jo “CoreJJ” Yong-in the bot lane.
The most high profile addition to the Team Liquid squad is the signing of Søren “Bjergsen” Bjerg. The former star mid laner had been a part of TSM for seven years and retired at the end of the 2020 season. However, not only the 25 years came back from retirement but also left TSM to join Team Liquid.
Although the new Team Liquid lineup is yet to play a game, it’s safe to say that they are favourites to win domestic splits. The roster is full of veteran and star players, and not much can be said about the weaknesses. It’s clear that Team Liquid is aiming for internation glory rather than just domestic success. Many would consider this to be the most potent lineup North America has ever seen, and with big names in every position, it won’t be wrong to say so. That said, international success still feels far fetched, and only time would tell if the team can make waves globally.
