Sources - VALORANT: Olizera and Head Coach Yaba set to join KOI’s academy in the VCL Spain

A month ago, KOI announced on X that they were searching for a Head Coach and Assistant Coach for the upcoming VCL Spain season. According to Sheep Esports sources, the Spanish organization has secured at least one of these positions, as Head Coach Kirian “Yaba” Martínez has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with the club. Yaba, the Spanish coach of GoNext Esports and winner of both VCL East: Surge splits in 2024, isn't the only recruit: KOI have also found an agreement with Diogo “OLIZERA” Oliveira for the 2025 season.

The Portuguese player, mostly a Sentinel and Duelist player, was already a strong presence in the league last season. OLIZERA played for UCAM Esports during the 2024 season, achieving notable success: the team secured a 4th-place finish in Split 1 and reached the Split 2 final, where they were narrowly defeated by Barça eSports.

KOI first entered VALORANT through the Spanish league in 2022, before joining the VCT EMEA in 2023. The team's lone season in the league delivered mixed results, with a 3rd-place finish in Split 1, followed by a disappointing 9th-place in Split 2. Since moving to the regional elite, KOI have struggled to find consistent success. The organization finished second-to-last in the 2023 edition of VCT EMEA and ranked last in both splits of 2024.

Through their academy, KOI aim to develop homegrown talent and establish a stronger presence in the VALORANT competitive scene. The Spanish organization is not alone in launching an academy during this offseason—a move previously prohibited by Riot Games. Karmine Corp will also field a team in VCL France, while Team Liquid will compete in VCL North//East.