The Superstar Roster Set to Return to IG
Since parting ways with stars like TheShy and Rookie, IG has shown a significant decline in performance in recent years. Once the world champion and a powerhouse in LPL, the team is now only ranked modestly at 11-13 in the LPL Summer 2024. Just when it seemed IG would remain stuck, surprising news emerged in the transfer market that the team is set to acquire a super “stacked” roster.
Specifically, many sources within the LPL have shared that they are about to acquire 4 former World Champions: TheShy, Rookie, Jiejie, and Meiko. The ADC position will also be filled by a notable star named GALA, following rampant rumors that he is set to leave LNG. Moreover, Coach Kenzhu recently revealed that IG will hire an entire coaching staff from Korea of exceptional quality. Two names hinted by Kenzhu to lead this team are “Mr. D” – Daeny and Coach Mafa, who recently parted ways with JDG (he was with Gen.G from 2021-2023).
Immediately after this information was shared, it created a huge “storm” in the LPL region. Even Uzi jokingly said on a live stream that he wanted to join IG next season (even in a substitute position) to have the chance to team up with such quality players. In fact, the media in the LPL has referred to IG’s “new” roster as the last hope for this region to compete in next season’s World Championship.
A Tough Journey Awaits IG Next Season
In terms of reputation, names like TheShy, Rookie, Meiko… of the “new” IG (if they join) will certainly attract more viewers to the LPL next season. They are all players with a significant fanbase (especially TheShy) and could help considerably improve LPL’s viewership metrics. This is essential given the low appeal of LPL during the 2024 season.
However, the star players mentioned above may not currently possess the peak performance they had during their world championship days. In fact, TheShy has taken a break from competitive play for the entire 2024 season and will need time to readjust to the professional environment. Meanwhile, Rookie, Jiejie, and even Meiko have also seen a decline in performance in the past season.
Therefore, expecting IG’s new roster (if confirmed) to immediately dominate and rule the LPL is quite difficult. Not to mention that other teams like BLG, JDG, and TES also have strong rosters. Perhaps this “new” IG team will have to put in a lot more effort to regain their form and succeed in the upcoming 2025 season.