GIANTX has implemented significant adjustments to its VALORANT team during the middle of VCT EMEA Stage 1. The European organisation has officially removed initiator Emil ‘runneR’ Trajkovski and duelist Tomás ‘tomaszy’ Machado from their starting five.
In their place, GIANTX is bringing in Karel ‘Flickless’ Maeckelbergh and Hanceriuc ‘ara’ Eduard-George. Both players were previously part of UCAM Esports and are joining under the Affiliate Partnership Programme. Their first match for GIANTX is scheduled to be against Fnatic on April 17.
The Motivation Behind the Roster Shuffle
According to a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), GIANTX expressed confidence in the new additions, stating that the work ethic and performances shown by Flickless and ara during their time in the Challengers League indicated they might be the right fit to boost the team’s competitive form.
The team emphasized that this decision comes as part of an effort to revitalize their season following a lackluster start.
GIANTX explained that the results from earlier this year did not align with the standards expected within the organization. Following internal evaluations and unsuccessful attempts to resolve performance issues with the current lineup, the team decided that more impactful changes were necessary.
Current Status of Departed Players
Emil ‘runneR’ Trajkovski will remain in Berlin as the team’s sixth man, maintaining a substitute role. Meanwhile, Tomás ‘tomaszy’ Machado has been moved to the bench and is set to return to his home in Portugal.
GIANTX expressed gratitude to both players, acknowledging their dedication, personal contributions, and loyalty to the organization despite the underwhelming results.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Hopes Hanging by a Thread
So far in 2025, GIANTX’s performance in both the EMEA Kickoff and Stage 1 has fallen short of expectations. The team has only managed to win a single series during the season.
Despite the difficulties, there remains a slim possibility for GIANTX to reach the Stage 1 playoffs. However, this would require an exceptional run of form in upcoming matches and favourable outcomes from rivals such as NAVI. Even in that scenario, a superior map differential would be essential for advancement.
With new players set to debut, GIANTX is aiming for a turnaround as the competition intensifies.