LECCBLOLLJLJanuary 17, 2026Major Roster Overhaul in EMEA and APAC League of Legends Teams
Natus VincereTL;DR
Several teams in EMEA and APAC announced significant roster changes, including new player signings and coaching adjustments ahead of the competitive season.
The League of Legends scene saw considerable roster shifts across multiple teams in EMEA and APAC on January 17. Notably, Kinatu, a well-known Top Laner, announced his retirement, marking the end of an era for him and his team.
In EMEA, the coaching staff is undergoing transformation as NG welcomes Robben as their new Assistant Coach. This move suggests a commitment to developing talent and improving team strategies in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Phoenix (PHX) has made a significant splash by signing five new players: Top Laner Turtle, Jungler Fluffy, Mid Laner Dashkai, Bot Laner ardaffler, and Support Wuis. These additions demonstrate a clear desire to revamp their roster and enhance competitiveness.
Similarly, SU has acquired a full lineup of new talent, bringing in Top Laner Dionelux, Jungler XnS, Mid Laner Fade, Bot Laner Grave, Support Carry, and Coach Tasdin. This comprehensive overhaul indicates a focus on building a cohesive team able to challenge at the highest levels.
TOG also bolstered their ranks with the addition of Mid Laner Sajator, while ROSS added a complete roster with Top Laner CPM, Jungler Pasu, Mid Laner Fooneses, Bot Laner Devn, and Support Smarty. Their investments reflect a robust strategy aimed at rising through the ranks in EMEA.
On the flip side, EXE faced losses as Mid Laner Sajator and Support Smarty departed the team, leaving gaps to fill ahead of the new season. In Brazil, RED experienced a shift in their content division with streamer Dersin2k leaving, which signals changes in their digital outreach strategy.
OAE confirmed that Head Coach Valuta and Assistant Coach R4T would remain with the team until 2026, emphasizing stability amid ongoing changes. Additionally, RSG signed Support hetel as a temporary substitute for the upcoming LJL 2026 Winter Series Qualifier, replacing Charley.
In another notable update, NAVI added Xnapy as a Co-Streamer, while RS.D revamped their roster by signing Jungler Gago and Bot Laner Adversário, parting ways with Azevedo and Matuto. These changes across various teams highlight a dynamic environment as organizations look to position themselves for success in 2026.
