GIANTX has enlisted Clément “CyvOph” Millar and Mikhail “globeX” Kostylev as temporary stand-ins for its VALORANT team at Monsters Reloaded. This decision comes after the departures of Jesse and neT, solidifying GIANTX’s roster for the upcoming LAN event in Istanbul on October 24. The organization revealed these additions on October 4, 2026.
The quick turnaround is noteworthy: GIANTX announced Jesse and neT’s departures on October 2, leaving the team with the task of filling both spots before their next competition. These exits followed a challenging VCT 2026: EMEA Stage 2 performance, where the team finished 13th–16th and exited during the Play-In stage.
Neither Jesse nor neT had been part of the lineup for an extended period. Jesse initially joined GIANTX as a stand-in in July before transitioning to a full member on July 25, while neT came on board on July 10. This year has seen various changes across the VALORANT scene, with player movements impacting not only GIANTX but other teams as well.
At present, the new recruits are designated as stand-ins and not permanent replacements. This distinction is crucial as it indicates a short-term adjustment rather than a long-term roster change. The immediate focus is on developing chemistry to compete effectively at the LAN event following these last-minute alterations.
CyvOph brings valuable experience; globeX adds a title to the mix
CyvOph’s previous team was NAVI, where he joined in June. Prior to that, the French player represented Fnatic and Team Vitality, bringing a wealth of experience from established organizations to GIANTX as a stand-in. While this background is beneficial, it does not guarantee instant success for a team fresh off a Play-In exit.
globeX most recently competed for Barça eSports, winning the VALORANT Challengers 2026 Spain: Rising Stage 2. This recent victory adds a title-winning player to GIANTX’s lineup, although specific roles and responsibilities for either player have not been disclosed in the announcement.
The lineup presented by the club includes Miloš “westside” Duda, Eduard-George “ara” Hančeriuk, Karel “Flickless” Mekkelberg, CyvOph, and globeX, with the new additions noted as stand-ins. As fans speculate on the upcoming GIANTX configuration, the key question revolves around how these five players will mesh in competitive matches.
Istanbul marks the initial test
GIANTX has secured a direct invitation to the Monsters Reloaded LAN finals set for October 24 in Istanbul, Turkey. With a $35,000 prize pool at stake, the reshuffled lineup faces a significant competitive challenge right out of the gate.
CyvOph and globeX are confirmed as stand-ins for Monsters Reloaded, with their future status with GIANTX left unspecified. Until the event kicks off, the safest assumption is clear: two players have departed, two have arrived, and the Istanbul LAN presents the first opportunity to see how the new pieces fit together.