NiKo to Join Falcons After Shanghai Major
Espor
NiKo, G2's star player, is reportedly joining Falcons after the Shanghai Major. This transfer could mark a significant shift in the CS2 scene.
Nikola "NiKo" Kovač, the star player from G2, is reportedly set to join the Falcons after the Perfect World Shanghai Major concludes. This transfer has been widely discussed and marks Falcons' second attempt to secure NiKo, following a failed bid in late 2023.
The Deal Details
The news initially came from French streamer and leaker Sebastien "KRL" Perez, who revealed that G2 and Falcons have reached an agreement on NiKo's transfer, set to begin in early 2025. The deal reportedly hinges on NiKo’s signature, with the transfer valued between $1 million and $1.2 million. NiKo is expected to sign a three-year contract with Falcons, starting from January 1, 2025.
Falcons' Previous Attempt to Sign NiKo
This isn't the first time Falcons have tried to sign NiKo. In late 2023, the organization was close to bringing NiKo onboard as part of their ambitious plan to build a new Counter-Strike super team. The roster was to include top players like Emil "Magisk" Reif and Marco "Snappi" Pfeiffer. However, NiKo decided to stay with G2 for the 2024 season, leaving Falcons to continue without him.
Falcons' Performance in 2024
Since missing out on NiKo, Falcons have struggled to achieve the success they aimed for. Their best result in 2024 was a top-four finish at IEM Katowice. Despite signing players like Danny "zonic" Sørensen from Vitality, Falcons have not been able to secure consistent high placements, missing out on playoff spots in multiple major events. Their most notable successes include modest performances in smaller tournaments, such as a top-four finish at BetBoom Dacha Belgrade and second place at ESL Challenger Jönköping.
Current Status and What's Next
Falcons are currently participating in the second edition of BetBoom Dacha Belgrade and are also in the running for a spot at IEM Rio through the European closed qualifier. With NiKo potentially joining the roster, Falcons could be looking at a significant boost to their performance in 2025.
Both G2 and Falcons have declined to comment on the transfer rumors. However, if the deal goes through, it could be a game-changing move for both NiKo and the Falcons.
This development is one to watch closely as the Counter-Strike scene prepares for another shift in power dynamics with NiKo's potential move.