TL;DR
- Team Vitality parts ways with coach YamatoCannon and multiple players seeking competitive revival
- Excel Esports secures proven coach YoungBuck while targeting established LEC talent for roster upgrades
- European market offers abundant veteran talent following Misfits’ complete roster release
- Both organizations face critical roster decisions that will determine their 2020 LEC performance
- Strategic offseason moves could significantly alter the competitive balance in European League of Legends
Team Vitality enters the 2020 season pursuing comprehensive organizational transformation that extends well beyond player roster adjustments. The French organization recognizes that incremental changes won’t suffice after disappointing competitive performances.
Head coach Jakob “YamatoCannon” Mebdi has concluded his tenure with Vitality following a two-year partnership. This coaching separation represents just one component of the team’s multifaceted offseason restructuring initiative.
The Swedish coach became synonymous with Vitality’s identity after joining in 2017, evolving into one of the organization’s most recognizable figures. However, the squad’s inability to achieve meaningful LEC results during his leadership necessitated this coaching staff revision.
Vitality’s Strategic Roster Overhaul for LEC 2020
Beyond the YamatoCannon separation, Vitality has initiated multiple personnel changes including releasing bottom laner Amadeu “Attila” Carvalho. Additionally, mid laner Daniele “Jiizuke” di Mauro faces contract expiration on November 18th, creating significant uncertainty about his continued involvement with the organization.
While remaining squad members maintain contracts through 2020, the organization could explore trade opportunities with other teams. This flexibility provides Vitality with various pathways for roster reconstruction.
The team’s offseason strategy remains tightly guarded, with minimal credible rumors circulating about potential moves. Vitality management must decide between pursuing established star players or continuing with their current developmental approach.
Strategic Consideration: Organizations often underestimate the integration period required when making multiple roster changes simultaneously. Teams should allocate 4-6 weeks for new players to develop synergy before expecting competitive results.
Excel Esports’ Ambitious 2020 Competitive Revival
British organization Excel Esports represents another franchise with substantial ambitions for the 2020 competitive season. The team recently finalized an agreement with former Fnatic coach Joey “YoungBuck” Steltenpool, effectively concluding speculation about his potential move to North America’s LCS.
Under YoungBuck’s leadership, Excel anticipates implementing substantial organizational and competitive improvements. The coach brings proven strategic expertise from his successful tenure with Fnatic.
Current transfer rumors strongly suggest former FC Schalke 04 bottom laner Elias “Upset” Lipp will join Excel. Another potential acquisition involves Splyce support player Tore “Norskeren” Eilertsen, indicating targeted upgrades for key positions.
Despite most current players remaining under contract, complete roster reconstruction remains a viable option. Excel’s LEC performance has been concerning, finishing ninth in Spring and tenth in Summer respectively. These results prove particularly disappointing for an organization with Excel’s substantial financial backing and infrastructure.
Coaching Impact Analysis: Proven coaches like YoungBuck typically require one full split to implement their systems effectively. Teams should maintain realistic expectations during this transition period.
Fortunately, the European competitive landscape currently offers abundant available talent seeking opportunities at reasonable acquisition costs. Misfits Gaming’s decision to release their entire roster created a pool of experienced veterans including British jungler Nubar “Maxlore” Sarafian and mid laner Fabian “Febiven” Diepstraten.
These established players possess the capability to immediately contribute to any LEC organization. The availability of such proven talent creates unique opportunities for teams like Vitality and Excel to accelerate their competitive timelines.
Market Timing Strategy: Organizations should move decisively during offseason windows when quality players become available. Hesitation often results in missing optimal acquisition opportunities.
Teams rebuilding their rosters should prioritize complementary playstyles over individual skill alone. Successful team construction requires careful consideration of how players’ strengths and weaknesses will interact during competitive play.
For comprehensive strategic guidance on team building approaches, consult our Complete Guide to understanding organizational development principles.
Action Checklist
- Evaluate current roster strengths and identify specific role requirements for improvement
- Research available talent pool and establish acquisition priorities based on team needs
- Develop integration timeline allowing 4-6 weeks for new roster synergy development
- Implement strategic coaching systems and establish clear team communication protocols
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » YamatoCannon leaves Vitality, Excel picks up YoungBuck Analyzing Team Vitality's roster overhaul and Excel Esports' strategic rebuild for LEC 2020 competitive success