One of the most recognizable representatives of the Middle Eastern Counter-Strike scene, ISSAA, has officially ended his professional playing career. The Jordanian rifler stated that he is ready to begin a new chapter in esports — this time in the role of a coach or analyst.
ISSAA’s Statement: Key Points
In his announcement, ISSAA directly explained the reasoning behind his decision, emphasizing a shift in priorities and his evolving view of the game:
This was one of the most difficult decisions of my life, as Counter-Strike had been my reality for many years.
The player stressed that he had consciously reflected on his place within the professional scene and where his contribution could be most impactful:
I was completely honest with myself about where I can provide the most value today. I realized that my influence can now be greater in a coaching role.
In essence, this is not a story of burnout but rather a strategic transformation of a career — a relatively rare case among professional players.
read more
Influence of In-Game Leaders
ISSAA devoted particular attention to the figures who shaped his understanding of team play and leadership. In his statement, he mentioned two captains who had a profound impact on his professional development — ANGE1 and Aleksib.
He described working with these in-game leaders as a defining factor in forming his vision for future coaching work. This is a revealing detail: ISSAA directly links his coaching ambitions to his experience within structured systems under strong leadership.
Such an emphasis suggests that his potential coaching philosophy will likely revolve around discipline, macro-level understanding, and tactical structure.
ISSAA’s Career and Legacy
Although ISSAA’s career was not always marked by stability, his name remains firmly embedded in the history of the professional scene. His most notable individual achievement remains the MVP award at DreamHack Open Tours 2018, where he delivered an outstanding 1.42 rating.
That tournament represented the peak of his individual form and cemented his status as one of the most impressive riflers of that period. Notably, he achieved this milestone while representing the Ukrainian organization HellRaisers.
Subsequent stages of his career, however, were complicated by external factors, including the shift to online competition, regional limitations, and structural changes across the scene in the post-pandemic era.
Why the Transition Appears Logical
From a professional standpoint, ISSAA’s transition into a coaching or analytical role appears entirely consistent. Over the years, he accumulated experience across multiple systems, roles, and team environments, including elements of leadership.
Such a background is often more valuable for a coach than pure mechanical prowess. Understanding match psychology, communication dynamics, and adaptation to varied playstyles forms a strong foundation for coaching success.
ISSAA himself acknowledged this perspective:
I was once a young player, and I understand how confidence is built, how it can break, and how the right feedback can change everything.
Looking Ahead
The primary intrigue now lies not in the retirement itself but in where ISSAA will apply his expertise next. His experience within international rosters and diverse tactical frameworks positions him as a potentially valuable asset for organizations at various competitive levels.
Given current trends in CS2, demand for coaches with deep game knowledge and international experience continues to grow. As such, ISSAA’s move should be viewed not as an ending, but as the beginning of a new professional phase.
read more
An Important Figure in International CS
ISSAA leaves the active player scene with a distinctive legacy. While not a dominant force of an era, he became a meaningful part of international Counter-Strike and a symbol of a career built despite regional and structural barriers.
His decision appears deliberate, rational, and professionally motivated. The central question now is whether he can successfully translate his playing experience into tactical and managerial impact beyond the server.
