YamatoCannon Departs Fnatic

Today, as we close in on the end of the year and make changes in preparation for the LEC 2023, we announce that we will part ways with Head Coach Jakob ‘YamatoCannon’ Mebdi, allowing him to explore new opportunities outside of Fnatic.

Joining us in November of 2020 after years in Vitality and a short period in SANDBOX, Jakob debuted as our Head Coach in Spring 2021. With him came not just experience but his signature style (on and off the server) and unparalleled energy to the squad. Yamato led us in securing a spot in Playoffs 2021 after a challenging regular season. Then, entering summer, Yamato’s consistent passion and expertise propelled the squad into an impressive summer run, qualifying for Worlds and finishing 2nd in the Split.

In 2022, Yamato helped us achieve significant results alongside our new roster, with a 3rd place finish in the Spring Split and more recently, a miracle summer run helping us fight on for 3rd again, whilst also qualifying for his second Worlds under the Black and Orange. With two International events, multiple playoffs and European finals under his belt, Yamato’s input and work has been instrumental in the last few years of Fnatic League of Legends. His coaching style and approach to the team dynamic was highly valued, and truly allowed all players under him to shine in their respective roles. His passion for his “gentlemen” and the game was evident in everything he did and could be seen over and over in every second of our Legends In Action series. We are extremely grateful for his contributions during his time under Fnatic, and will always look back on it fondly.

Outside of the Rift, Yamato instantly made a name for himself under the Black and Orange. He defined himself as one of the LoL’s headline coaches for his confident and assertive presence, bringing his in-game expertise to the stage and with it a huge sense of style and showmanship. His extensive suit collection and smart demeanour was a welcome addition to the LEC stage. And of course his motivating and stoic speeches will be remembered and immortalised at Fnatic. Team Director Javi ‘Dardo’ Zafra added the following regarding Jakob’s departure:

“Me and everyone at Fnatic wishes Jakob all the best moving forward, and I want to thank him for his hard work these last two years. His energy and attitude made these last two years truly memorable, and his presence in the team continuously helped us push forward against the odds, even when things looked hard and impossible with this summer split being a prime example. Good luck with everything in the future and thank you for your efforts under Fnatic”

We wish you the best going forward Jakob, and are grateful for all of your time in the Black and Orange. Thank you for everything.

Once Fnatic, Always Fnatic. On three, gentlemen…