Astralis Set to Sign Swedish AWPer phzy as Part of Major Roster Rebuild

Astralis Set to Sign Swedish AWPer phzy as Part of Major Roster Rebuild

Astralis, one of Counter-Strike’s most historic organizations, is reportedly preparing to announce the signing of Swedish AWPer Love “phzy” Smidebrant for their 2026 Counter-Strike 2 roster, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. 

The move comes after a period of significant upheaval for Astralis, which has undergone a major roster overhaul since the end of 2025. With phzy’s buyout clause triggered by an unnamed organization, the 23-year-old sharpshooter is expected to take over the AWPer role left vacant by the departure of Danish star Nicolai “device” Reedtz. 

Astralis confirmed device’s departure on December 28, 2025, noting that the organization intended to explore international roster options moving forward. The Swedish signing would represent the first time Astralis fields a truly international lineup in Counter-Strike’s current era — a significant departure from the team’s historically Danish core. 

The expected inclusion of phzy also follows the exit of Emil “Magisk” Reif, whose contract expired at the end of 2025. Magisk’s departure was widely reported amid Astralis’ broader reshuffling efforts. 

phzy’s Journey Through 2025

phzy’s route to Astralis has been far from smooth. In 2025, he spent much of the year with Wildcard, where he played a prominent role throughout the season and participated in two CS2 Major events, compiling a 1.13 rating across 167 maps — a respectable performance indication at the highest competitive levels. 

Despite his solid individual output, Wildcard’s management benched him midsummer, a move that surprised many in the community and fractured his relationship with the team. A loan to international side 9INE was later cancelled after just one month, despite 9INE’s interest in extending the deal. phzy’s stint with 9INE ended after only three events, after which Astralis triggered his buyout to secure his services. 

Astralis’ Roster Context and Recent Struggles

Astralis’ roster has been in flux for much of the past year. The organization faced a disappointing competitive slate in 2025, notably missing the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 — their fifth consecutive failure to qualify for a Major event. That result underscored the team’s struggles to regain elite form following a period of dominance in the earlier CS:GO era. 

Major trophies once defined Astralis’ legacy, including four CS:GO Major titles between 2017 and 2019, but in the CS2 era the team has struggled to replicate that success, prompting several high-profile departures and attempted roster reinventions. 

Adding a player like phzy — known for his aggressive AWPing style and strong statistical outputs — suggests Astralis are looking to blend rising talent with their existing core to find new competitive footing. 

The current reported Astralis lineup with phzy included would consist of:

• Love “phzy” Smidebrant (AWPer, Sweden)

• Victor “Staehr” Staehr (Denmark)

• Rasmus “HooXi” Nielsen (Denmark)

• Jakob “jabbi” Nygaard (Denmark)

• Head coach: Casper “ruggah” Due (Denmark)

• Benched: Martin “stavn” Lund (Denmark)

This configuration shows Astralis maintaining a Danish core around the international addition of phzy, highlighting a transition phase where the team mixes experience with fresh talent.

Why This Move Matters

The acquisition of phzy is noteworthy for several reasons:

1. First International Roster Direction – Astralis historically relied on a Danish roster identity, but this signing would mark a clear departure toward international recruitment. 

2. AWPer Replacement – With device moving on to join 100 Thieves (as reported by HLTV), Astralis needed a sniper presence. phzy’s signing fills that role directly. 

3. Roster Momentum – As Astralis continues rebuilding, a successful integration of phzy could stabilize their lineup heading into the 2026 competitive cycle.

Community Reactions and Expectations

The CS2 community has offered mixed reactions to the reported signing. Some fans welcomed the move, viewing phzy as a promising talent capable of thriving in a new environment, while others voiced skepticism about roster fit and Astralis’ broader rebuild strategy — especially after a challenging 2025. 

Regardless of opinion, the signing represents a strategic pivot for one of the game’s most storied teams. Astralis hope that fresh additions and an international outlook may unlock the kind of performance that eluded them throughout the latter stages of the 2025 season. 

Next Steps

Astralis is expected to confirm phzy’s signing officially in the coming days ahead of BLAST Bounty Season 1, with the online portion of the event scheduled to begin January 12-17, 2026.