Academy mid laner T1 Poby Set to Replace Humanoid in Fnatic

In a surprising moment of the season, Fnatic (FNC) is making one of the most unexpected moves, replacing mid laner Marek “Humanoid” Brázda with T1’s academy mid laner Yun “Poby” Sung‑won ahead of the summer split.

Poby set to play for FNC in the LEC Summer split

According to a report by Sheep Esports, the Korean mid laner, who has been raised through the T1 academy system, is set to compete in the starting roster for FNC, which has been struggling with performances in 2025 and missed the qualification for both First Stand and MSI 2025. One of the best mid laners in Europe over the past few years, Humanoid has been among the criticized players in the team for his inability to step up in crucial series.

Other mid laners from the ERLs, such as BK ROG’s mid laner Šimon “OMON” Říháček and Misa Esports’ Oh “Callme” Ji-hoon, were considered for the position, but the T1 name plate seems to have taken the upper hand in the recruiting process.

Poby has been in the T1 academy team for quite some time, and came into the spotlight when he substituted Faker back in 2023 during the LCK Summer split. The mid lane GOAT was taking a break from competitive to heal his arm injury and Poby got the chance to play in the starting roster for a total of 18 games. Unfortunately, the Korean youngster struggled to make his name known in the most competitive league in the world, and his lack of experience didn’t lead to very positive results during the regular split. Since then, he has returned to the LCK CL and has been competing for T1’s academy, finishing in fourth place in the latest Rounds 1-2.

Lots of concerns for Fnatic and the Korean talent

The announcement came as a shock to most people in the scene. Several members of the community were taken aback by the timing, and some even expressed concerns about the move at such a crucial point in the season. Poby will have not only to adapt to a new environment in a completely different region, but Fnatic is also expected to compete at the highest level in the LEC Summer Split, as Worlds qualification will be on the line, therefore putting more pressure on him and the rest of FNC.

Several esports personalities expressed their concern, some of them even saying that the move didn’t make much sense from a competitive standpoint. “Poby joining fnatic is the most bizarre thing ever,” tweeted LS on X. “Who was behind that scouting decision? I mean literally no disrespect but literally I have public games against him, and he is the last person you’d expect to get imported. T1 brand name is that much of a moonshine shot or what?”

Former LEC pro player Gilius also publicly stated that the move feels like a “desperate roster change” while former professional coach and esports personality Yamatocannon has said it’s the option with highest potential upside, given the limited amount of options at this phase of the season.

With Poby joining FNC, he will get the chance to prove himself when the LEC Summer Split kicks off on August 2.