MAD Lions, the former LEC champions, are making changes to their coaching staff following a disappointing season. They have reportedly reached an agreement with Tomás “Melzhet” Campelos Fernández, the current coach of Movistar Riders, to lead the team in the upcoming year. This marks the end of James “Mac” MacCormack’s tenure as the head coach for MAD Lions. The team has allowed all players and coaches to explore other options for 2024, suggesting that more changes may be on the horizon.
Melzhet, who has been coaching in competitive League since 2019, will be making his LEC debut as a head coach with MAD Lions if the acquisition goes through. He previously coached S2V Esports’ Academy roster in Spain and served as the head coach for G2 Esports’ Academy team before joining Movistar Riders in 2023.
Mac, on the other hand, has been highly regarded as one of Europe’s best coaches, especially during his three-year tenure with MAD Lions. Under his guidance, the team won three LEC championships, made two appearances at MSI, and qualified for four consecutive World Championships. However, this season proved to be challenging for MAD Lions, particularly towards the end.
While MAD Lions maintained some consistency during the 2023 Winter and Spring Splits, they struggled in the 2023 Summer Split, finishing in seventh place twice and failing to qualify for the Season Finals. This lack of momentum carried over to Worlds, where the team only managed to win a single match against another LEC representative. Overall, it was a disappointing performance for MAD Lions at both international events they attended this year.
In summary, MAD Lions is looking to revamp their coaching staff by bringing in Melzhet as the new head coach. This decision marks the end of Mac’s successful tenure with the organization. Despite their recent struggles, MAD Lions has been a top contender in Europe under Mac’s leadership, and it remains to be seen how the team will perform under Melzhet’s guidance in the upcoming year.
Source: DOTESPORTS
