“I wasn’t really a leader, our relationship did not allow that. We got too used to each other”. Nafany reflects on kick from Cloud9

In a revealing Twitch stream session, Vladislav “nafany” Gorshkov provided extensive insight into the circumstances surrounding his exit from the Cloud9 competitive roster. The former in-game leader detailed the emotional journey and strategic considerations that preceded this organizational decision.

Honestly speaking, the news didn’t come as a devastating blow since we’d been trending toward this outcome for several months. I recognized that certain foundational roster adjustments were necessary for progress. To maintain professional discretion, I’ll address internal matters in general terms rather than specific incidents.

The disappointment lasted merely 24 hours, and it wasn’t about the dismissal itself or any element of surprise. This represents standard procedure within competitive ecosystems where teams must evolve to remain relevant. My primary concern during that brief period involved evaluating potential future opportunities within the competitive landscape.

Gorshkov explored the possibility of transitioning to international competition but identified language proficiency as the primary barrier. Despite this limitation, the seasoned competitor understands his market value, particularly given his extensive Major tournament experience across multiple competitive cycles.

My current status involves being on the bench with no definitive timeline for future team announcements. I’m approaching this transitional phase patiently. <…> International competition appealed to me strategically, but my English communication abilities require further development. While I can maintain basic conversations, complex strategic discussions present challenges that need addressing before such a move.

This period allows for strategic contemplation and career planning. At 22 years old, I represent one of the younger in-game leaders in top-tier competition, with only siuhy being more junior among top-30 IGLs. My career includes substantial Major tournament exposure, including both successes and learning opportunities. I possess clear understanding of the foundational requirements for elevating teams to competitive relevance, though the final step toward championship contention requires additional strategic development.

When analyzing team dynamics, nafany identified interpersonal relationships as the central complication. The core roster’s extensive history together created an environment where asserting authoritative leadership became increasingly difficult. The same cohesive chemistry that propelled their initial ascent ultimately created structural challenges during competitive downturns.

It’s crucial to understand that myself, Ax1Le and sh1ro developed together through the Gambit Youngsters system. We maintained equivalent standing throughout our careers. Genuine leadership authority never properly established because our personal connections prevented that dynamic. Our familiarity reached levels that compromised hierarchical structure. We initiated our professional journeys at identical levels and perpetuated that equilibrium. My strategic input carried no greater weight than sh1ro’s perspectives, and frequently held less influence.

When sh1ro expressed positional preferences, I lacked the authority to counter with “No, this role assignment is necessary”. I acknowledge this represents a personal leadership failure. Certain tactical decisions required my definitive authority, yet circumstances prevented such assertions. In critical moments, I failed to demonstrate appropriate leadership behavior and avoided the necessary confrontations to uphold strategic decisions. This reflects my individual growth area rather than team deficiencies – they’re exceptional competitors.

S1mple: “I think, we will have a really nice honeymoon period”

Nafany acknowledged that Cloud9’s reconstructed lineup demonstrates impressive theoretical strength, but emphasized that “in contemporary Counter-Strike” successful team integration remains the decisive factor. Gorshkov praised electronic, his positional successor, and expressed continued support for the organization’s competitive endeavors.

Cloud9 assembled a formidable roster on paper. Each individual demonstrates exceptional skill, though competitive outcomes remain unpredictable. This mirrors the NAVI organizational narrative. Evaluating teams purely by player reputations proves unreliable since interpersonal chemistry remains unpredictable. If C9 establishes positive team dynamics and avoids internal blame-shifting, they could replicate Gambit’s championship form and potentially reach top global ranking. The names inspire confidence, but modern competitive landscapes demand more than individual talent evaluation. <…>

Electronic clearly outperforms me in raw mechanical skill. I cannot assess his leadership capabilities without shared competitive experience. However, based on NAVI’s previous performances, he appears competent strategically. I maintain belief in C9’s competitive potential. <…> I will continue supporting the team enthusiastically. I’ve preserved positive relationships with most former teammates and wish them nothing but success.

Cloud9 manager: “There is a high chance that we as a community ruined a lot of deals beneficial for whole industry with leaks. I definitely know of a few”
Agrees with dupreeh that current situation with insides shows unprofessionalism.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides » “I wasn’t really a leader, our relationship did not allow that. We got too used to each other”. Nafany reflects on kick from Cloud9 Former Cloud9 IGL Nafany reveals leadership challenges, roster dynamics, and future plans in candid reflection