LEC: Isma joins KC, while Boukada moves to SK Gaming! Everything you need to know

The esports world was shaken by a jungler swap between Karmine Corp Blue and SK Gaming. Ismaïl "ISMA" Boualem is leaving SK Gaming to join Karmine Corp Blue in the French League of Legends League (LFL), while Mehdi "Boukada" Lahlou heads to the LEC, joining SK Gaming. This change has major implications for both teams, highlighting the financial and competitive challenges they face.

SK Gaming finished in 9th place in the 2025 LEC Winter Split, prompting them to rethink their roster for the Spring Split. Strategic differences, particularly between ISMA and some of the players, also played a role in this decision. On the other hand, Karmine Corp Blue, crowned champions of the LFL Flash In, was looking to strengthen their team for upcoming competitions.

At just 22 years old, Boukada is ready to take on the LEC challenge after his successful career in the LFL with teams like Atletec, Team Du Sud, and Team GO. His move to SK Gaming presents an opportunity to compete against the best European teams. As for ISMA, with four splits in the LEC under his belt, he joins Karmine Corp Blue for his first season in the LFL. After shining with Movistar Riders, winning the SuperLiga and reaching the final of the 2023 EMEA Masters against Karmine Corp, his return to the ERL could reignite his career.

Boukada's arrival at SK Gaming allows the club to renew their roster without breaking the budget, while Karmine Corp Blue is betting on ISMA's experience to strengthen their team. Initially uncertain, ISMA's participation in the 2025 EMEA Masters Winter has now been confirmed by Riot Games, adding depth to the team.

These changes are sure to have an impact on upcoming competitions. SK Gaming hopes Boukada can propel them to the top of the LEC standings, while Karmine Corp Blue relies on ISMA to maintain their champion status in the LFL and aim for new successes on the European stage. Despite some challenges, such as the temporary absence of Kim "Piero" Jung-hun for the EMEA Masters, the team remains optimistic.