100 Thieves Appoint gla1ve as CS2 Head Coach — Strategy, Quotes & Team Build Explained

Former Astralis in-game leader and four-time CS:GO Major winner Lukas gla1ve — widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in Counter-Strike history — retired from competitive play in late 2025 and immediately shifted into coaching.

In his first major interview about the new role, gla1ve described his biggest coaching challenge as the limited ability to influence the match flow in-game, compared with his old role as an IGL. Rather than controlling every round, he said coaching is about preparation, clarity, and impactful tactical pauses.

“As a coach, you can’t take the wheel mid-round like an IGL — your influence comes before the match and in short moments.” — gla1ve (translated)

100 Thieves’ Vision for CS2: Experience Meets Youth

100 Thieves have framed their CS2 project as a long-term build, not a short hype team. According to internal statements, they considered several coaching candidates — including coolio, dem0n, and dziugss — before choosing gla1ve because of his leadership vision and strategic approach.

With rain as the in-game leader, 100 Thieves aims to combine veteran CS2 experience with structured growth:

gla1ve — Head Coach, strategy, preparation, team culture.

rain — IGL and core leader with FaZe Clan experience.

Messioso and sgares — Supporting staff strengthening operations.

Device Rumors and Future Roster Potential

Rumors supported by multiple esports outlets suggest that Nicolai device Reedtz — gla1ve’s former Astralis teammate — is expected to join the roster, potentially reuniting two Major winners in the same lineup. While not officially announced, industry reports name device as a likely signing.

This possible reunion would increase 100 Thieves’ competitive credibility and attract further attention from the CS2 community.

Player & Expert Reactions

rain on gla1ve collaboration

rain has publicly stated that joining 100 Thieves with gla1ve as coach was a “dream opportunity.” He praised gla1ve’s strategic mind and leadership legacy. (Source: Cybersport.ru)

Device on the move

In his own earlier remarks, device emphasized hard work and results over talk, promising to earn fans’ trust through performance once officially signed. (Source: Cybersport.ru)

The broader CS2 community responded with excitement and debate — many fans labeled gla1ve the “GOAT IGL turned coach” as soon as the announcement was made.

What This Means for 100 Thieves in CS2

Signing gla1ve signals 100 Thieves’ intent to compete at the highest level in CS2:

Proven leadership experience from esports dynasty teams.

Strategic coaching emphasis over casual roster stacking.

A structured developmental path rather than a quick-build roster.

As the CS2 competitive season unfolds, all eyes will be on how quickly this blend of veterans, coaching strategy, and possible device signing translates into results at majors and online leagues.