After just one season with the company, Team Liquid has terminated AD carry Steven “Hans sama” Liv from their League of Legends team. It’s uncertain if the six-year veteran will continue to operate inside the North American League system after playing his first season outside of Europe this past year.

Even though Liquid struggled at home, Hans Sama was a key component of their triumph in 2022. Liquid ultimately lost to Evil Geniuses in the LCS Championship quarterfinals, falling one game short of securing North America’s last spot at the League World Championship this season.

According to a tip last week from Brieuc Seeger of Upcomer, Hans Sama has indicated a desire to use Karmine Corp, a squad that participates in the LFL, to travel back to Europe.

In a farewell video shared on Liquid’s Twitter account, Hans Sama expressed his excitement for the future. “I’m not going to give up, for sure. I want to do all in my power to keep enjoying myself while I’m here and playing this game, wowing everyone with my performance. No matter what happens, I’ll give it my all.

According to the professional League worldwide contract database, Liquid had initially signed Hans Sama to a three-year deal that was due to finish at the conclusion of the 2024 season.

For the 2023 season, the Liquid will attempt to abandon its approach of creating “superteams” through free agency and begin developing the talent it already has on the homefront, according to owner Steve Arhancet’s confirmation last week. In his update last week, Arhancet stated unequivocally that “the roster will be altered” for the upcoming campaign. With Hans Sama’s departure today, the first piece of Liquid’s offseason fell into place. Judging by the duration of his contract, Hans Sama was supposed to be a franchise cornerstone for Liquid.

Top laner Bwipo, jungler Santorin, and mid laner Bjergsen are more players that have contracts with Liquid for the next season. What Liquid has planned for those players is still unknown, but if Liquid is ready to let a player like Hans sama’s contract expire, it is reasonable to assume that all alternatives are on the table.

This offseason, Liquid will have four players with contracts that are completely up for renewal: starting support CoreJJ, Academy-level players Haeri, Yeon, and Eyla, as well as Yeon. Between now until the beginning of the free agency window on November 22, Liquid could try to extend them.