As the echoes of The International 2025 fade and the dust settles on another monumental season of Dota 2 esports, a different kind of storm begins to brew: the annual post-TI roster reshuffle. This period, often a volatile mix of whispers, speculation, and strategic maneuvering, dictates the competitive landscape for the coming year. This year, Timur “Ahilles” Kulmukhambetov, a respected coach within the Dota 2 community, has stepped forward as something of an oracle, offering tantalizing glimpses into the potential shake-ups.
During a recent personal broadcast, Ahilles shared an array of insider information, hinting at significant changes across some of the most prominent teams. From two-time TI champions to burgeoning contenders, it seems few rosters are truly immune to the winds of change. Let`s peel back the layers of speculation and explore what Ahilles` revelations suggest for the future of professional Dota 2.
The Titans and Their Trials: Team Spirit and Liquid
Even teams that have carved their names into the annals of Dota 2 history are facing uncertainty. Ahilles touched upon Team Spirit, the formidable force that has twice claimed the Aegis of Champions. Ahilles noted that support player Miposhka is expected to take a break of an unspecified duration. The future of mid-laner Larl also remains shrouded in mystery, with Ahilles admitting the situation is “unclear.” For a team synonymous with stability and dominance, these whispers suggest a fascinating period of introspection and potential evolution.
Team Liquid, another perennial powerhouse, appears to be headed for a complete overhaul. According to Ahilles, a “full roster reshuffle” is on the cards. This comes after earlier rumors, also shared by Ahilles, suggested the potential arrival of Ivan “Pure~” Moskalenko and Alimzhan “Watson” Islam with Arman “Malady” Orazbayev. Such a comprehensive change would effectively wipe the slate clean for Liquid, setting the stage for a dramatic rebuilding phase.
Shifting Sands for BetBoom, Tundra, and Falcons
The carousel of players continues to spin for other top-tier teams:
- For BetBoom Team, the departure of offlaner Ivan “Pure~” Moskalenko is anticipated. Interestingly, Pure~ is rumored to be making a return to Tundra Esports, a team that Ahilles reported already has “two players out.” This potential swap highlights the intricate web of player movements and the constant quest for optimal team synergy.
- Team Falcons, a squad that has shown immense promise, is expected to maintain its core. However, a single, critical question looms: the future of their position 4 support, Cr1t-. Ahilles suggested that if Cr1t- decides to take a break or retire, Falcons would be forced to seek a replacement, adding a touch of fragility to an otherwise stable outlook.
Uncertain Futures and Emerging Narratives
The reshuffle extends far beyond the top contenders, painting a broader picture of uncertainty:
- OG, the European giants, recently saw the departure of 23savage. The fates of Crystallis and Saksa remain up in the air, with Saksa potentially taking a hiatus and Crystallis`s next move unclear, though a return to OG isn`t entirely off the table.
- PARIVISION stands out as an anomaly, with Ahilles humorously stating that the “brothers” will stick together, bound by a “patsanskiy dogovor” – a testament to camaraderie in an often cutthroat environment. One might almost envy such straightforward commitment in a scene so prone to upheaval.
- Natus Vincere (NAVI) has already parted ways with their coach, but Ahilles suggests that further player changes might prove “difficult” for the organization.
- In the enigmatic world of Nigma, rumors suggest either GH or OmaR might be on their way out.
- And finally, Aurora appears to be gearing up for a reshuffle, with kiyotaka reportedly out. While a chat message on Ahilles` stream suggested Panto`s departure, Ahilles noted he hadn`t heard that specific information, emphasizing the fluid and sometimes contradictory nature of these insider reports.
The Inevitable Dance
The post-TI reshuffle is an annual spectacle, a period where careers are forged, allegiances tested, and new dynasties begin to form. Ahilles` insights, while unofficial, provide a valuable peek behind the curtain, fueling fan discussions and setting expectations for the upcoming competitive season. The beauty of this period lies in its unpredictability – the potential for underdog stories, the formation of dream teams, and the dramatic narratives that only esports can deliver.
While official announcements will eventually confirm or deny these whispers, the period of speculation remains a captivating prelude to the next chapter of Dota 2. One thing is certain: the professional scene is poised for a vibrant, if turbulent, transformation. The game of Dota 2 may stay the same, but the players who define its competitive essence are constantly shifting, ever searching for that elusive perfect synergy.
Oliver Brampton 
Finley Holt