Two players have been signed, one talent has been promoted from the academy: RBLZ Gaming has doubled the size of its e-sports squad. The expansion is part of a new Leipzig strategy.
God knows the previous Leipzig eSports squad was not lacking in quality: Umut Gültekin, Anders Vejrgang and Levy Finn Rieck – or: the 2022 world champion, the 2024 world champion and the reigning vice eChampions League winner.
Nevertheless, RBLZ Gaming is expanding mightily. First, the signing of British player Alfie ‘RedLac’ Calder was announced. Then the club revealed that Alihan Hadzhi is the first player from the YoungstarZ junior program to make the step up to the pros. Most recently, RBLZ signed Brazilian Guilherme Barros, who had advanced to the round of 16 at the FC Pro World Championship this summer. From 3 to 6 – but why?
RBLZ are entering new territory
In response to e-sports related questions, RBLZ confirmed that Gültekin, Vejrgang and Rieck are still set to play for VBL. Daniel Fehr will also remain as a coach. In addition, the Leipzigers want to position themselves more internationally for the new season in FC 25. This applies to both eSports and content. ‘RedLac’ combines both topics and should provide the RBLZ with various formats on a weekly basis. Ebru Önal remains content creator at RB.
The Brazilian Barros, who is clearly too strong and established to play the fourth eSport violin, is to represent Leipzig in other regions at the international level. According to RBLZ, the exact location where the 2024 Vize-eLibertadores winner will compete will be communicated soon. A similar approach is being taken with Hadzhi, who is also planned for international competitions. The 16-year-old Bulgarian is considered a huge talent, which he will be able to prove for the first time in official tournaments in FC 25.
RBLZ Gaming seems to be pursuing an internationalization strategy not only in terms of sports but also in terms of entertainment – and wants to open up new markets. In keeping with this, the Leipzig-based company is organizing a trip to New York this summer, where the pros will compete against fans and casual gamers.
