Absent from The International 2024, and looking to the future, OG has released its long-time coach Mikhail “Misha” Agatov. News of the departure broke on social media on the afternoon of August 14.
In a series of posts, OG bid farewell to the coach and support player, who joined the team in September 2021. Calling him one of the “faces of OG 2.0,” the organization thanked Misha for all his contributions.
In a statement released alongside his release, Misha thanked OG and the fans:
“I’m very grateful to fans, OG & players we’ve worked with last 3 years. I have learnt so many incredible things: how to win together, trust each other, how to be a team, a good human being and much more.
Special thanks to Ceb & Johan for valuable life & Dota lessons. I will carry this experience with me forever. Thank you OG!”
– Misha on his release
Misha’s teammate and colleague Sébastien “Ceb” Debs also released a comment on Misha’s departure:
“Today I say farewell to a great teammate. It’s been inspiring working with you. I’ve witnessed so much passion and dedication over the years, and will always remember the level of commitment you demonstrated.
Once OG, always OG. I wish you the best onwards Misha.
– Ceb on Misha’s departure
The departure ends an almost three-year stint with OG that had seen Misha act as both the teams coach, support player, and occasional stand-in. The organization, which had occasionally struggled with visa issues surrounding Misha, still placed the player at the heart of its team, relying on him for motivation and support.
OG may be looking for something new after a series of disappointing finishes. The team crashed out of the Elite League Season 2 in the first round of the Semifinals despite a top finish in the group stage. The team also missed out on TI 2024 amid a highly competitive WEU field.
Now the organization eyes the future, and Misha’s departure may only be the first in several to come.
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