MarkyB, DREAL depart Gentlemates

Marky B & DREAL Step Back from Coaching Roles with LAG M8

In a move that signals a fresh shift in the organization, LA Guerrillas M8 announced that assistant coach Mark “MarkyB” Bryceland and head coach Ehsan “DREAL” Javed will no longer be part of the coaching staff. This marks a significant change for the franchise as the team looks to recalibrate for the upcoming season.

DREAL reflects on growth and decision to depart

DREAL opened up about his time with LAG M8, calling it “the most challenging season of his career”—yet also the one that offered the biggest personal and professional growth in an interview with Ronnie earlier this week. While he didn’t elaborate on his future plans, his departure provides the organization with a chance to reshape its coaching philosophy. Javed was the first signing for Gentlemates when the esports organization acquired the LA Guerrillas franchise slot. After joining as the Head Coach, he led the signings of the ex-New York Subliners core that won the 2023 World Championship. In the end, the team was unable to recapture their old form under the new banned.

📸 Photo by @CODLeague

MarkyB Steps Away

DREAL won't be the only coach departing the franchise, as MarkyB has announced that while he's under contract, the franchise will allow him to explore new options for next season. This effectively makes him a restricted free agent as the Scot looks to find another coaching staff for 2026.

MarkyB had been a strategic presence on the coaching staff since the beginning alongside DREAL. As a former professional player & coach of Toronto Ultra, his insight and experience were valuable assets for the squad.

What This Means for Gentlemates

These changes arrive at a critical juncture for the franchise, as Esports World Cup & the offseason rostermania are quickly approaching. Following acquisition by the Gentle Mates group in late 2024, expectations were high for the team's competitive resurgence in year one. While DREAL praises the learning curve this season presented, the coaching shake-up suggests a pivot toward a new strategic direction aimed at reclaiming their competitive edge.

Moving forward, LA Guerrillas M8 will be on the lookout for new coaching talent to guide their 2026 campaign in Black Ops 7. The organization’s next moves will be crucial as they aim to reset their presence in the CDL and build a foundation for the future.