TL;DR
- G2 blocked Perkz from joining rival Fnatic due to competitive concerns
- Perkz rejected Asian offers citing cultural adaptation challenges
- Confident he’ll dominate LCS mid lane with only Jensen and PowerOfEvil as competition
- Believes coaches are ‘mostly useless’ and players drive strategy creation
- Returns to mid lane role after successful bot lane stint with G2
In a revealing Croatian podcast interview, Cloud9’s newest mid lane acquisition Luka “Perkz” Perković detailed the complex negotiation landscape that defined his transition period. The European superstar didn’t hold back when discussing the contractual limitations that shaped his career move.
During the extensive discussion, Perkz provided unprecedented transparency about his departure from G2 Esports and the multiple offers he evaluated. Beyond the host’s prepared questions, audience participation brought forth particularly illuminating inquiries about potential team destinations.
The mid laner clarified unequivocally that joining Fnatic was contractually prohibited, a restriction that G2 CEO Carlos “Ocelote” Santiago publicly acknowledged in recent broadcasts. The organization permitted Perkz to explore opportunities with any team except their primary European rivals. This strategic blocking stemmed from G2’s desire to prevent strengthening their closest competitors. With Perkz remaining under G2 contract until the Cloud9 transfer, Ocelote maintained ultimate authority over permissible destinations.
Despite the Fnatic exclusion, Perkz encountered an overwhelming array of global opportunities. He received serious offers from elite Chinese and Korean organizations, multiple European squads, and nearly every North American franchise. This abundance of choices ultimately led him to reunite with former teammate Jesper “Zven” Svenningsen on Cloud9’s roster.
The Croatian professional explained his decision to avoid Asian teams stemmed from concerns about cultural adaptation barriers and the necessity of learning entirely new languages in competitive environments.
Transitioning to an entirely new competitive region hasn’t diminished Perkz’s self-assurance regarding his mechanical prowess. He expressed strong conviction in his ability to establish mid-lane dominance, identifying only two legitimate challengers in the entire North American league.
According to his assessment, Team Liquid’s Nicolaj “Jensen” Jensen and Team SoloMid’s Tristan “PowerOfEvil” Schrage represent the sole substantial competition he anticipates facing.
The conversation took a provocative turn when addressing coaching staff effectiveness in professional League of Legends. Perkz articulated perspectives that challenge conventional esports organizational structures.
He fundamentally disagrees with the premise that coaches significantly influence team outcomes. The veteran player characterized most coaching professionals as “largely ineffective within the current industry framework” and emphasized that strategic development typically originates from players themselves.
However, Perkz acknowledged positive evolution as increasing numbers of retired professionals transition into coaching roles, bringing competitive experience and game understanding that traditional coaches often lack.
Is Perkz a mid laner?
Perkz reclaims his original mid lane position for the 2021 competitive season. He began his professional journey as a mid laner before executing a remarkable role swap to bot lane for G2 at 2018’s conclusion. This strategic move created space for new teammate Rasmus “Caps” Winther in the mid lane. While demonstrating exceptional performance as an AD carry, the Croatian star maintains that his natural comfort and strategic understanding reside in his foundational role.
How old is Perkz?
At just 22 years old, Perkz has accumulated competitive achievements that surpass most professional careers. The Croatian phenom has qualified for five World Championships and captured eight domestic titles. He now brings his championship pedigree to North America with ambitions of expanding his trophy collection in the LCS.
What is the LCS?
The League Championship Series (LCS) represents North America’s premier competitive league. This elite circuit features the region’s ten strongest organizations and provides direct qualification to the World Championship. Established in 2013, the league has evolved into a franchised system where teams maintain permanent competitive slots.
Action Checklist
- Evaluate contract restrictions and non-compete clauses before team negotiations
- Assess cultural adaptation requirements for international team opportunities
- Analyze regional competitive landscapes to identify optimal career moves
- Develop role flexibility through dedicated position practice sessions
- Create player-driven strategy development frameworks independent of coaching staff
No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » Perkz says he wasn’t allowed to go to Fnatic, will be the best mid in LCS Perkz reveals G2's Fnatic block, LCS ambitions, and controversial coaching views in exclusive interview