B1ad3: NAVI aims for trophy consistency — but admits resources remain hurdle

Andrey “B1ad3” Gorodenskiy, head coach of Natus Vincere, recently framed the ongoing rebuild of his squad with a blunt observation: while the long-term ambition is to develop a team that consistently wins trophies, such a vision requires investment, stability, and patience. In a candid interview following NAVI’s swift exit from Swiss play, B1ad3 emphasized that his current roster is still a work in progress—“We are focusing on squeezing the maximum out of this lineup” — and that the process demands support and resources. 

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Milestone win vs MongolZ — but perspective matters

Earlier in the event, NAVI secured a 2–0 win over The MongolZ, the top-ranked team in the VRS and a regional powerhouse, to advance to the playoffs. B1ad3 called the result meaningful, but downplayed it as only one step in a longer journey. “You cannot get so much confidence from a Tier-3 event — in terms of teams,” he noted, referencing NAVI’s recent trophy at StarLadder Fall 2025, which he viewed as less of a measuring stick than a morale boost. 

He admitted expectations need recalibration: they “beat all the teams that we should beat,” but it is the next challenges that will truly define their growth trajectory. 

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Integrating makazze and managing expectations

A central thread in B1ad3’s remarks was on Drin “makazze” Shaqiri, who joined the main roster after promotion from NAVI Junior. Though promising, makazze is still in the process of adapting to NAVI’s system. B1ad3 said:

“You need a minimum of six months to see if a system will work with a new player… he has specific duties and roles to do that you need to make pretty sharp and crispy, not sloppy.” 

He contrasted makazze’s learning curve against that of veterans like iM, saying a new player cannot assume fluid role understanding immediately. Over scrim cycles, internal feedback, and controlled growth must shape his development. 

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Building, not burning — philosophy, roster, and realism

Trophy ambition vs staged development

B1ad3 acknowledged that while NAVI aspires to be a perennial trophy contender—much like the previous runs of Vitality—the present goal is more modest: consistent improvements rather than immediate glory. “We want to build a team that is winning trophies constantly,” he said. “But you need resources for this… you need players.” 

He referenced earlier statements in which he admitted NAVI was not yet a squad ready to claim top honors. In a prior HLTV interview, he called their current Major run “the exam” that would decide whether the present core can carry future expectations. 

Managing pressure & avoiding delusion

B1ad3 emphasized the importance of grounding expectations. Though fans may push for immediate success, he insisted NAVI must remain “in reality,” resisting overconfidence or inflated goals. This echoes past musings where he stressed humility as critical during periods of transition. 

He acknowledged the temptation to shoot for trophies quickly, but said that doing so without infrastructure and suitable players can lead to collapse.

Roster architecture & structural investment

• B1ad3 said NAVI evaluates potential roster changes between seasons with intention, not desperation: “we try to speak with players … not just randomly but specifically who can be good with the vision we have.”

• He clarified they are not in a holding pattern: “For now we’re fully focused on this lineup. We are not thinking just ‘for a while’.” 

• But he also conceded that roster moves or upgrades may be necessary as the team evolves.

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What it means: implications & watchpoints

1. Transition phase
   NAVI are in a rebuild phase, even after winning the StarLadder Fall trophy. That title feels more symbolic than transformative. The real litmus tests lie ahead at larger events with deeper fields.

2. Makazze’s growth is central
   His integration will be watched closely. If he stabilizes mid-season, NAVI can lean into him; if not, tougher decisions may come.

3. Resource constraints will shape ceiling
   Coach B1ad3 repeatedly referenced “resources” — from player acquisition to support systems — as critical enablers for sustained success. Teams with deeper backing may have an edge.

4. Expectation management
   For NAVI fans and stakeholders, the message is clear: even in victory, balance is vital. Overreach could disrupt growth if losses mount.

5. Longer trajectory matters more than episodic wins
   The 2025 season has had flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. Moving forward, the team must string together stable results rather than rely on standout moments.