Danish organization HEROIC are looking to address their AWP struggles by bringing in Antonio "MartinezSa" Martinez from Gentle Mates, according to recent reports from HLTV. The Spanish rifler would take over from Simon "yxngstxr" Boije, who has been filling the AWP role temporarily after Alimzhan "Alkaren" Bitimbay was sidelined due to ongoing visa complications.
Along with potential roster adjustments, HEROIC have confirmed changes to their coaching setup. Head coach Tobias "TOBIZ" Theo and analyst Mathias "R0nic" Pinholt are being replaced by Joonas "doto" Forss, who previously worked with HEROIC Academy.
MartinezSa has demonstrated solid performance throughout 2026, posting a 1.12 rating across 58 LAN maps. The Spaniard has proven himself against top-tier competition including G2 and FURIA, showcasing versatility with his ability to both initiate and close out rounds with the AWP.
In comparison, yxngstxr struggled in his temporary AWP role, managing only a 0.99 rating over 74 LAN maps despite competing against higher-level opposition. As a non-specialist forced into the position, he became the second-lowest rated player on the roster.
Following HEROIC's underwhelming performance at the IEM Cologne Major, where only Linus "nilo" Bergman consistently delivered, the team desperately needs an AWP upgrade. Interestingly, if the transfer materializes, MartinezSa would become their first permanent AWPer since fellow countryman Álvaro "SunPayus" García.
The coaching shuffle sees TOBIZ departing after his first major opportunity following successful work with MOUZ NXT. While his overall impact remains unclear, bringing in doto, who is already familiar with the organization, could provide the fresh perspective HEROIC needs.
The revamped lineup will debut at Stake Ranked Episode 3 in Barcelona next week.
