C9 Jack says Perkz could have been paid seven digits more but chose C9

Luka “Perkz” Perković made one of the most discussed career decisions in recent esports history, choosing competitive ambition over financial security.

Cloud9 founder and CEO Jack Etienne revealed in exclusive interviews that the European superstar declined significantly more lucrative contracts to join their roster for the 2021 season.

During a comprehensive discussion with esports journalist Duncan “Thorin” Shields, Etienne detailed the complex negotiation process and strategic thinking behind acquiring one of League of Legends’ most celebrated players.

This landmark deal represents not just a player acquisition but a statement of intent from Cloud9 about their competitive aspirations.

Despite involving multimillion-dollar figures, Etienne confirmed Perkz had opportunities to secure substantially higher compensation packages from other organizations.

“His decision to accept a seven-digit reduction demonstrates unprecedented commitment to competitive excellence,” Etienne emphasized.

The CEO clarified that while Perkz remains well-compensated, his choice reflects a departure from the trend of international stars using NA teams as retirement destinations.

Many fans questioned whether this move followed the pattern of European imports seeking financial security before career conclusion.

Etienne provided assurance that Perkz’s motivation stems from championship aspirations rather than monetary considerations.

“This decision confirms Perkz prioritizes team quality and competitive environment above all else,” the Cloud9 executive explained.

Perkz arrives during a pivotal moment for North American mid lane talent following the departure of legendary player Søren “Bjergsen” Bjerg from Team SoloMid.

The timing creates an ideal scenario for Perkz to establish himself as the new face of LCS mid lane excellence.

His debut with Cloud9 coincides with the 2021 LCS Spring Split commencement, marking a new chapter for both player and organization.

Who is the CEO of Cloud9?

Jack Etienne’s leadership journey began with Team SoloMid management before he revolutionized Cloud9’s trajectory in Season 3.

His strategic acquisition of the former Quantic Gaming roster laid the foundation for what would become one of LCS’s most successful franchises.

Under Etienne’s guidance, Cloud9 developed into a model organization known for player development and competitive consistency.

Etienne’s management philosophy emphasizes creating environments where elite talent can thrive both competitively and personally.

His hands-on approach to roster construction and player welfare has established Cloud9 as a destination for world-class competitors.

The organization’s success under his stewardship demonstrates the critical importance of visionary leadership in modern esports.

How old is Perkz?

At 22 years old, Perkz combines youthful energy with veteran wisdom accumulated through multiple international tournament appearances.

His professional journey originated with Gamers2, the organization that would evolve into the globally recognized G2 Esports brand.

Perkz contributed significantly to G2’s transformation from challenger team to European powerhouse and world finalist.

The player’s career demonstrates remarkable adaptability, having successfully transitioned between roles while maintaining elite performance levels.

His five-year European tenure established him as one of the region’s most accomplished and respected competitors.

This North American move represents both a personal challenge and an opportunity to impact a different competitive landscape.

Perkz’s age positions him perfectly to deliver several more years of peak performance while mentoring younger talent.

Why did Perkz switch to ADC?

Perkz’s position change preceding the 2019 LEC season resulted from G2’s strategic acquisition of Rasmus “Caps” Winther from Fnatic.

The addition of Caps created an unprecedented situation with two world-class mid laners on one roster.

Rather than creating internal competition, Perkz voluntarily embraced the bot lane role to optimize team composition.

His successful adaptation to ADC demonstrates exceptional game understanding and team-first mentality.

From this new position, Perkz achieved remarkable success including three LEC championships, the 2019 Mid-Season Invitational title, and appearance in the World Championship finals.

This role flexibility represents a valuable asset in modern League of Legends where meta shifts demand player adaptability.

His Cloud9 transition marks a return to mid lane where he originally established his legendary status.

The return to his natural position, combined with accumulated bot lane experience, creates a uniquely versatile player profile.

This experience provides Perkz with unique insights into both lane dynamics that will benefit his mid lane play.

The Perkz acquisition represents more than just a roster addition—it signals a fundamental shift in how top organizations approach team building and player acquisition.

From a strategic perspective, this move demonstrates how elite players increasingly prioritize competitive environment and championship potential over pure financial compensation.

Common mistakes organizations make when importing international talent include underestimating cultural adaptation challenges and overemphasizing short-term performance over long-term fit.

Optimization strategies for successful player integration involve comprehensive support systems addressing both competitive and personal transition needs.

The timing of this transfer, estimated to require 2-3 months for full team integration, positions Cloud9 advantageously within the evolving LCS landscape.

Advanced team building requires balancing star power with roster cohesion, a challenge Etienne appears to have navigated successfully.

In-depth analysis of team composition mechanics reveals that successful rosters require complementary playstyles and shared competitive vision.

The retirement of Bjergsen created a strategic vacuum in the mid lane that Perkz is uniquely positioned to fill given his championship pedigree and role versatility.

This acquisition demonstrates Cloud9’s commitment to reclaiming championship status through strategic investment in world-class talent.

Practical considerations for similar high-profile transfers include managing fan expectations, ensuring adequate support infrastructure, and creating realistic performance timelines.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » C9 Jack says Perkz could have been paid seven digits more but chose C9 Exploring Perkz's strategic career move to Cloud9 and the leadership behind North America's premier esports organization