TSM Parts Ways with Coach XTQZZZ: A Look at the Departure

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

8 Oct

Kaustavmani Choudhury

In a surprising turn of events, TSM has officially parted ways with their head coach, Rémy “XTQZZZ” Quoniam. This decision comes after just a short stint with the organization and raises questions about the future of both XTQZZZ and Team SoloMid's Counter-Strike division.

A Rocky Start with TSM

XTQZZZ's journey with TSM began with high hopes, as the coach was expected to lead the team to success in Counter-Strike 2. However, the reality of their performance fell short of expectations. TSM's return to Counter-Strike was highly anticipated. But marked by disappointment as the team failed to make an impact in upper-tier events.

Despite XTQZZZ's efforts to rebuild the roster and guide them towards victory, it became evident that the team was struggling to punch above their middleweight status in the competitive CS2 scene. The departure of the project's architect in July 2023 further hinted at internal issues within the organization.

XTQZZZ's Desire to Depart

On October 7, 2023, TSM officially announced XTQZZZ's departure from the organization. The decision was reportedly fueled by XTQZZZ's own desire to leave the project. Indicating that the coach may have felt it was time to move on.

Assistant Coach Lambert "Lambert" Prigent has been appointed as the interim head coach while TSM evaluates its next steps for the head coach position. XTQZZZ's exit raises questions about the future direction of TSM's Counter-Strike division.

A Potential Return to Vitality

Interestingly, XTQZZZ's departure from TSM has intensified the rumors about a potential return to Team Vitality. According to reports, the French coach has been approached by Vitality to replace Danny "zonic" Sørensen as the head coach, with discussions reportedly underway.

This would mark a significant reunion for XTQZZZ and Vitality. As he previously coached the French squad from December 2018 to 2021. If the rumors hold true, XTQZZZ could once again lead the French-majority squad. Potentially bringing a fresh perspective to the team's CS2 journey.

The Changing Landscape of CS2

As the roster shuffle before IEM Sydney intensifies, XTQZZZ's potential return to Vitality could have a substantial impact on the CS2 competitive landscape. With zonic's departure for Team Falcon, the Saudi Arabia-based team's plans are shrouded in mystery. And star players have been linked to their future endeavors.

It's worth noting that CS2 introduces changes, such as the MR12 format, which could significantly affect roster construction and gameplay strategies. With fewer rounds to play and less time to build an economy, the roles and positions of players may undergo adjustments. As the first upper-tier competition in CS2, IEM Sydney, kicks off on October 15, the entire Counter-Strike community is eagerly awaiting the unfolding of this new era.

In Conclusion

TSM's decision to part ways with XTQZZZ comes as a surprise to many in the Counter-Strike community. The coach's future remains uncertain. But rumors of a potential return to Team Vitality add an intriguing twist to the story. As CS2 continues to evolve, only time will tell what lies ahead for XTQZZZ and the competitive Counter-Strike scene.