At Konami, it’s not just the year 2023 that is coming to an end. As eSport exclusively learned, the eSports operation in eFootball 2024 is about to end. For the scene, this could be tantamount to an exodus
“We have no plans to hold a pro competition in the 2024 season” is a sober, almost inconspicuous sentence that has shaken the eFootball scene to its core. It comes from an internal communication from the developer Konami to clubs, which is available to eSport and has been confirmed by several top international eSports players. The Japanese company wants to change its strategy and focus on community events in the future. The eFootball Championship Pro, the World Championship and other competitions – a thing of the past.
“A disaster for the eFootball eSports community” is how three-time world champion Walid Rachid ‘Usmakabyle’ Tebane sees this move, who explains the eFootball Championship Pro: “It was the best possible system that allowed eFootball players to sign professional contracts with prestigious clubs. Now we are all unemployed.” Although the Frenchman wants to wait for Konami’s official confirmation, he repeatedly emphasizes: “Yes, it’s a disaster. “
Clarity in early December?
In fact, Konami has not yet issued an official statement on the developments, which are probably still certain. The developer also kept a low profile when asked by eSport. “While we cannot comment on the speculation raised, we will communicate our plans for eFootball eSports in early December,” reads the terse response, which does anything but deny the eSports exodus.
Although three-time Championship Pro winner Tebane has experienced “worse situations” and is confident that he can overcome the predicament, he is concerned about less prominent and high-profile colleagues. “I’m thinking in particular of some who have been able to shine through eFootball Pro. It will be difficult for them to recover.” Tebane knows “many players who are thinking about ending their careers. That is unfortunate.”
The reason for these considerations: The community events Konami is aiming for simply might not be financially viable for players. “I think if the prices aren’t attractive, there’s no reason to stay. It’s just ridiculous,” says ‘Usmakabyle’, who also points out, however, that “anything is possible with Konami. So we’ll have to wait and see what new system comes out. “
Meanwhile, we can only speculate about the reasons for the eSports withdrawal. Tebane has his own guess as to why Konami is aiming to take this radical step: “I think Konami is disappointed with the commitment of some clubs.” They had not advertised the competition prominently enough.
“There needs to be enough of an audience to remain attractive, and that also requires regular communication on the clubs’ main networks,” suspects ‘Usmakabyle’, who also holds the professionals responsible: “The blame lies with everyone, including some players who sometimes agree to play for free or for ridiculous sums.” This has made it possible for “big clubs” to “get away with everything”.
Is eFootball eSports dying out in Europe?
This is another reason why Tebane believes that the dream of becoming a professional in this country is over. “You should think about going to other continents,” said the former Monegasque, hinting at a move that Alejandro ‘Alex’ Alguacil has already made. After the Spaniard returned to Barcelona from FC Bayern Munich before the last pro season, he moved to Bali FC United from Indonesia a few weeks ago. A path that could set a precedent as soon as Konami’s official announcements become public
