Omar Riza has been sacked as Cardiff City manager and replaced by Aaron Ramsey.
The Bluebirds lie 23rd in the Championship and are one point from safety with three games remaining.
Riza has been dismissed after a 2-0 defeat against a promotion-chasing Sheffield United side.
Riza started his Cardiff City managerial career in September 2024, following Erol Bulut’s sacking, and has only won one of his last nine games in charge.
Cardiff City endured a poor start to the season, picking up just one point from their opening six games. Erol Bulut was sacked on 22nd September.
Riza, a coach under Bulut, was appointed interim manager on December 5th, on a contract to the end of the season.
Riza oversaw a turnaround during his interim period, picking up 16 points from nine matches.
Cardiff City found themselves 20th in the table when he was appointed, two points ahead of the relegation zone.
Riza has been subjected to criticism from fans for his comments. The final nail in the coffin for many was when he branded them as “clueless.”
Fans voiced their opinions during the course of the Bramall Lane defeat, with chants of “we want Riza out” and “you are getting sacked in the morning” coming from the away end.
Riza spoke to the press after the game at Bramall Lane.
“It is tough, it is disappointing,” he said.
“I have to keep doing my job. I am the manager of the club and I have to remain focused to ensure my players are ready for the game on Monday [against Oxford United]. I have to take what they [the fans] want to sing and what they want to say on the chin and move forwards.”
Riza apologised in the week for his comments towards the fans, he said:
“I thought the fans were behind the players today, it was more towards me.”
In the statement confirming Riza’s departure, the Bluebirds paid tribute to his effort in the role.
“We would like to thank Omar for his passion and effort during his time as Cardiff City manager and wish him the very best for his next steps in the game.”
Ramsey takes the reins
Riza has been replaced by experienced midfielder and Wales captain Aaron Ramsey.
Ramsey, 34, has never had a coaching role; however, he has been installed for the last three games of the season.
Ramsey, who has for the Welsh national team, is currently out injured with a hamstring issue.
The academy graduate rejoined the Bluebirds in summer 2023, after a career which included appearances for Arsenal and Juventus.
Ramsey also has 86 caps including a Euro 2016 semi final apperance and 21 goals with Wales, who he captains
The Welshman is not alone and will be joined by club captain Joe Ralls and Cymru U19 manager Chris Gunter.
Cardiff City U18 manager Tom Hutton, U21 coach Matthew Bloxham, and goalkeeping coach Gavin Ward complete the interim team.
Their task of guiding Cardiff City to safety starts with a home tie against Oxford United, at the Cardiff City Stadium.
The Bluebirds then face West Bromwich Albion at home and mid-table side Norwich City away in their final league match of the season.
