Magisk: “I'll Be Here Until the End of the Year, then We'll See What Happens”

Magisk: “I'll Be Here Until the End of the Year, then We'll See What Happens”

Emil “Magisk” Reif has officially rejoined Astralis, stepping in for Martin “stavn” Lund, who is taking leave from the team due to personal reasons. 

Magisk, a four‑time Major champion, expressed his gratitude for the chance to wear an Astralis jersey again after being benched by Falcons. 

“I just wanted to get back and play Counter‑Strike … Because that's what I love to do.” 

He debuted in his return at FISSURE Playground 2, where Astralis defeated Virtus.pro. Magisk said that it was especially important to begin their tournament with a win, given the changes the roster has gone through. 

Playing alongside longtime teammate Nicolai “device” Reedtz also felt meaningful to Magisk.

“I think it’s been almost five years since we played together … People change … We were also very close back then in the old Astralis … so yeah, it’s a good feeling.” 

He also commented on the leadership of Rasmus “HooXi” Nielsen, under whom the team has been reshaping its structure:

“I think he’s a very determined leader. He has a lot of ideas … motivated to get the best out of everything … everyone is trying to get the best outcome possible.” 

Magisk acknowledged that there are many new roles for him in this Astralis roster — different positions, different assignments — and that adjusting is part of the process.

“It’s a lot of new positions, a lot of new T side positions, so it’s kind of uncomfortable … I also know I’m a player that’s capable of adapting … I might need a little bit of time to actually get adjusted … that’s something I’m working hard on every single day … the goal is to get comfortable as fast as possible.” 

Timeline & Context

On September 1, 2025, Astralis officially confirmed that Magisk would be returning, replacing stavn, who is stepping away for “personal reasons.” 

Magisk was previously on Falcons but had been benched, opening the door to this return. 

Astralis have been going through a period of instability: missing qualification for several Majors, organizational financial issues, but also signs of resurgence under HooXi, including better results in recent tournaments. 

What Magisk Says About the Duration & His Goals

Magisk made clear that his current contract (or at least his commitment) is short‑term:

“For now the only thing I know is that I’m going to be here until the end of the year, and from there I will see what happens with me as well.” 

His individual goals include adapting to his new roles, gathering experience, and improving rapidly.

“I want to develop as a player, make sure that I stay sharp … try something different … maybe also get a little bit out of the comfort zone … renew myself into a better version …” 

As for team goals, making playoffs in the current tournament is realistic in his view. If they reach the playoffs, anything can happen.