Cardiff City sack Omer Riza as Wales' Aaron Ramsey takes charge

Cardiff City sack Omer Riza as Wales' Aaron Ramsey takes charge

Cardiff City has officially announced the appointment of Wales captain Aaron Ramsey as their interim manager for the remainder of the 2024-25 Championship season. This decision comes after the departure of Omer Riza, who was informed of the move following a defeat to Sheffield United which left the Bluebirds just one point away from the relegation zone in the Championship.

Ramsey, 34, will be leading the team for the first time in their upcoming match against Oxford United at Cardiff City Stadium. Assisting him will be former Wales teammate and current Wales Under-19 manager Chris Gunter, along with Bluebirds midfielder Joe Ralls. The technical staff will also include Gavin Ward as goalkeeping coach, as well as Under-21 coach Matt Bloxham and Under-18 manager Tom Hutton.

Despite his lack of previous managerial experience, Ramsey has expressed his coaching aspirations over time, with Wales boss Craig Bellamy even endorsing him as a potential high-level coach post-retirement. This season has seen Cardiff City go through multiple changes in the managerial role, starting with Erol Bulut before his dismissal due to a poor start. Riza, who took over on a caretaker basis and later signed a contract until the end of the season, has now been relieved of his duties amidst the team’s struggles.

Fans had been calling for a change in leadership after a series of disappointing results, with Cardiff City now hoping Ramsey’s appointment will provide a boost to the team and supporters. As one of the club’s most successful academy products, Ramsey’s return to Cardiff in 2023 was highly anticipated, though his playing time has been limited by injuries. Despite being ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Ramsey has been actively involved with the club, providing tactical analysis and coaching support during his time on the sidelines

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