Astralis officially announced that it has parted ways with device and Magisk, and plans to recruit two international players.

Astralis' CS2 division announced on Sunday that players Nicolai Ritz (ID: device) and Emil Leif (ID: Magisk) have officially left the team. device is expected to join 100 Thieves, while Magisk's future remains uncertain after his contract expires.

Regarding the departure of the two players, Astralis CEO Jonas Gundsen stated: "Both players are true legends, holding a special place within the organization and in the hearts of all Astralis fans. We were aware of Emil's departure and were prepared for Nicole's transfer. Prior to this, we had good and frank conversations with him about various possibilities. He and we both need new energy and goals. Although it was a difficult decision for both sides, now is the perfect time."

Gundersen also confirmed that the replacements for the two players are most likely to come from outside Denmark. He explained, "We have high ambitions for Astralis, and we also need to inject new energy into the team. Astralis is a Danish team – with a Danish core and a distinctly Danish character. The support from all over the country means a lot to us, and we will continue to be a team that unites Danes."

"At the same time, we have a responsibility to our fans, partners, and all members of the Astralis family, no matter where they come from. We must constantly strive to be the best we can be and continue to pursue higher goals."

"That's why we won't limit ourselves to a single market when recruiting new players. We will continue to build the team in 2026, with the strength of new members and the overall development direction of the team as the core considerations. This phase is new and exciting for Astralis. We will share more details later, but right now the most important thing is to say goodbye to the departing players properly - and hope to see them again in the future."

“I have the utmost respect for Nicolai and Emil, who have given their all for Astralis. They deserve our deepest gratitude and love. Today is not the first time we have parted, but it is still a special day for all of us. They will always be a part of Astralis and will always be welcomed.”

"They deserve the highest respect, the sincerest gratitude, and the best wishes for their future journey."

Device later added: "Leaving Astralis again is not easy. I've been eager to try new things for some time and am now looking forward to starting a new chapter. This departure, like the last one, is an amicable parting. I wish everyone all the best in the new year."

“I want to sincerely thank all the fans who have followed us since the founding of Astralis in 2016. I also want to thank every member of Astralis—you all hold a very special place in my heart.”

The 30-year-old device primarily plays as a sniper and has played for several CS teams throughout his career, including CPH Wolves, über G33KZ, Dignitas, TSM, Astralis, and NIP. He performed exceptionally well during his first season with Astralis, winning 25 major championships with the team over five years.

In October 2022, device rejoined Astralis from NIP. To date, he has played 1,074 maps and participated in 28,100 rounds for Astralis, with an average personal rating of 1.17.

As for 27-year-old Magisk, since returning to Astralis in September, he has played on 64 maps and participated in 1392 rounds, with an average rating of 1.00. As one of Denmark's most influential riflemen, Magisk previously played for several CS teams, including SK, North, OpTic, Astralis, and Vitality, and won 16 major championships with Astralis.