malbsMd Eyes Comeback in Liquid After G2 Exit: “I Want to Be the Player I Once Was”

Former G2 star seeks reset in Liquid amid role struggles and roster shake-up

Mario “malbsMd” Samayoa is entering a defining chapter of his Counter-Strike career after joining Liquid, openly admitting that his time in G2 left him searching for his former level. Now, the Guatemalan rifler is focused on rebuilding both his confidence and identity as a player.

Speaking to HLTV during BLAST Open Rotterdam media day, malbsMd made his intentions clear:

“I want to be the malbs that I once was… I’m hoping to find myself again.”

Why malbsMd Left G2: A Transfer He Didn’t Expect

The move from G2 to Liquid happened quickly — and, according to malbsMd, not entirely by his own choice.

He revealed that G2 informed him about Liquid’s offer and decided to proceed with the transfer. Despite the abrupt nature of the move, he described it as the beginning of “a new era,” while admitting he did not expect to leave so soon.

The transfer followed disappointing results from G2, including early exits at:

PGL Cluj-Napoca

ESL Pro League Season 23

These performances ultimately led to roster changes and the decision to bench malbsMd.

G2–Liquid Swap: malbsMd and NertZ Trade Places

The roster shuffle became one of the most notable recent transfers, with:

malbsMd joining Liquid

Guy “NertZ” Iluz moving to G2

This swap was widely seen as a reset opportunity for both players, who were described by HLTV analysts as being at similar career crossroads.

G2’s farewell message also highlighted malbsMd’s peak level, calling him the 12th best player of 2024, underlining the expectations surrounding his potential comeback.

Role Issues and Pressure in G2

A major factor behind malbsMd’s decline was role mismatch and increased responsibility.

After Nikola “NiKo” Kovač’s departure, malbsMd found himself under greater pressure to communicate and lead — something he admitted affected his performance.

He explained that he had to force himself into being more vocal, which made it harder to focus on his individual game.

This aligns with earlier criticism from former teammate Michael “Swisher” Schmid, who stated:

“malbsMd doesn’t deserve those roles… he should be in ones he shines in.”

Late in his G2 tenure, malbsMd was even playing anchor roles — far from the aggressive style that originally defined him.

Why Liquid Could Revive malbsMd’s Career

Liquid offers a very different environment — one that may better suit malbsMd’s natural playstyle.

He highlighted several key differences:

A stronger communication core led by EliGE

siuhy handling leadership duties

Less pressure on him to be a vocal leader

malbsMd said he expects “a more chill time” in Liquid, allowing him to focus on his mechanics and decision-making again.

This structural stability could be crucial in helping him return to form.

From Top 20 Player to Rebuild Phase

The contrast in malbsMd’s career trajectory is significant.

In 2024:

Ranked among HLTV Top 20 players (#12)

Considered one of the most explosive riflers in the scene

In 2026:

Benched by G2

Struggling with roles and consistency

Earlier in his career, malbsMd described playing in a structured system where:

“If I die, I have a purpose… if I get kills, it’s because everything is set up for me.”

That clarity disappeared over time — something Liquid now aims to restore.

Emotional Motivation: More Than Just Results

Beyond performance, malbsMd’s journey carries emotional weight.

When qualifying for the Shanghai Major in 2024, he described earning his first Major sticker as:

“An indescribable feeling.”

He also admitted frustration at seeing others reach that milestone before him, emphasizing how important representing Guatemala on the Major stage was.

This personal drive remains a key part of his comeback story.

What’s Next for Liquid and malbsMd?

Liquid are not only investing in firepower but also positioning themselves strategically for upcoming Major qualification cycles.

Upcoming events include:

BLAST Open Rotterdam

DraculaN

WINAMAX tournaments

More matches with the new roster will be crucial for:

Building synergy

Improving regional standing

Securing qualification points

Can malbsMd Return to His Peak?

The move to Liquid represents a high-risk, high-reward gamble — for both the player and the team.

For Liquid:

They gain a proven high-ceiling rifler

For malbsMd:

He gets a rare second chance to reset his career

His goal is simple — but far from easy:

To become the player he once was.