Counter-Strike has once again delivered news that shook the entire community: legendary American rifler Jonathan “EliGE” Jablonowski has officially returned to Team Liquid after a two-year break. Eight years with the roster, victories on the world stage, an Intel Grand Slam title, and a symbolic farewell in 2023 — it seemed like an era had ended. But now the legend has once again put on the Liquid blue jersey and made his first statements for the fans.
He's coming home. Welcome @EliGE back to Team Liquid CS 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/bUm9IPPMQz
— Team Liquid CS (@TeamLiquidCS) September 25, 2025
“Team Liquid has always been the best organization for me”
In a conversation with the club’s journalists, EliGE did not hide his emotions:
Team Liquid has always been the best organization for me. It’s the club where I started my career and where I had both my greatest highs and key learning moments. I grew here not only as a player but also as a person.
These words immediately reminded fans how deeply EliGE’s name is tied to Liquid’s history. He joined in 2015 and became part of all the team’s greatest triumphs, including the record-setting Intel Grand Slam Season 2 in 2019.
A comeback with meaning
After leaving Liquid in 2023, Jablonowski played for Complexity and FaZe Clan, gaining new experience and trying himself in different roles. But, as he admitted, coming home was always a matter of time:
Over these two years I’ve changed a lot. With Complexity I had to be more of a guiding voice, with FaZe I was a player trying to help the team in any way I could. All of this helped me realize how important it is to have the right chemistry within a team. At Liquid I see that chemistry, and I want to help take the final step that the team couldn’t make this whole year.
Cooperation with Flashie and a new role
EliGE also highlighted the role of head coach Flashie, with whom he already has a strong connection:
I really like his vision of the game. We speak the same Counter-Strike language. Within Liquid’s structure I see huge potential. My task is to become the player the team needs. If they need a voice and leader, I’ll do that. If they need an aggressive opener, I’ll do that too.
Another key point: Liquid had long been searching for a true entry-fragger, and EliGE is ready to fill the gap:
I’m naturally aggressive. I like going in first, creating space for others. That has always been my strength. I think it will help us find balance in our play and win big tournaments.
Why did @EliGE rejoin Team Liquid?
Watch our Q&A with Jon to catch up after his 2-year TL hiatus.
Glad to have you home, EliGe!🌊 pic.twitter.com/3qttovoJeo— Team Liquid CS (@TeamLiquidCS) September 26, 2025
“Pressure is a privilege”
Despite the high expectations, Jablonowski says he isn’t afraid of pressure:
Throughout my career I’ve always been under the microscope. This is nothing new for me. And I believe that pressure is a privilege. It means people want to see you play. Everyone expects results from me, and that’s normal. I want to prove that my return makes sense.
EliGE admits that there is little time to adapt: already this weekend Liquid will compete with their updated roster at the Blocktober tournament by Fragadelphia. Crucial matches in the context of the VRS ranking ahead of the Budapest Major also lie ahead.
I have to integrate into the system quickly. It’s going to be hard work, but I’m not afraid. I’m already working on my mechanics and studying positions to be ready. There isn’t much time, but I’ll do everything possible.
A symbolic new beginning
For fans, this return carries special meaning. After two years of traveling between teams, the legend has once again put on the blue jersey, and now expectations go beyond nostalgia — people want new victories. EliGE himself remains optimistic:
I’m excited to be back with Liquid. I hope this new chapter will shine for the team and the fans. I want them to be proud of us. And I’m confident we’ll make the most of this chance.
EliGE’s first words after returning to Team Liquid show that this comeback is more than just a symbolic reunion. It’s a challenge for the entire North American CS2 scene and a chance for Liquid to reclaim their status as true contenders for trophies.
