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Cardiff City Appoints Aaron Ramsey as New Manager

Despite lacking frontline managerial experience, Aaron Ramsey has been a figure of interest in coaching for some time, having received endorsements from Wales manager Craig Bellamy for his potential to succeed in a high-level position post-retirement.

This marks a turbulent season for Cardiff City, as Ramsey becomes the third individual to lead the team this year. The campaign commenced with Erol Bulut as head coach, but he was dismissed after a dismal start that saw the club securing merely one point from the first six matches, resulting in the poorest beginning to any season in their history.

Former Watford coach, Riza, initially brought in to assist Bulut, took over on a caretaker basis. His contract was extended until the end of the season in December after the team showed signs of improvement. However, Riza faced mounting pressure as Cardiff struggled to distance themselves from relegation threats. Speculation about a coaching change arose last month, with the club considering a return for ex-manager Neil Warnock. Nonetheless, Riza maintained the support of owner Vincent Tan at that time.

Following a disappointing 2-0 defeat at Bramall Lane—adding to a streak of five matches without a win—fan dissatisfaction grew, prompting the club to act decisively. The late appointment of Ramsey appears to be a strategic move aimed at energizing the fan base as Cardiff approaches crucial matches against Oxford, West Bromwich Albion, and Norwich City.

Ramsey, who made history as Cardiff’s youngest player at just 16 years old in 2007, enjoyed notable success at Arsenal, including two FA Cup victories. He returned to Cardiff in 2023 after playing stints at Juventus and Nice; however, injuries have limited his contributions on the field.

Recently undergoing hamstring surgery after an injury sustained against Luton Town, Ramsey will not partake in the Championship run-in but has remained involved with the club. He has been active in the academy and has provided tactical analysis to Riza during periods of injury earlier in the season.

With Ramsey at the helm, Cardiff City now looks to rally and stave off the threat of relegation, drawing on his legacy and connection to the club to inspire both players and supporters alike.

Source
www.bbc.com