Former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey has been named interim manager of Cardiff City following the dismissal of Omer Riza, as the Welsh club fights to avoid relegation with just three games left in the season.
Cardiff, currently second from bottom in the Championship and only one point from safety, confirmed the managerial change in a club statement:
“Cardiff City FC can confirm that a decision has been taken to relieve Omer Riza of his duties as First Team Manager. Aaron Ramsey will lead the club for the remaining three games of the Sky Bet Championship season…”
This marks Ramsey’s first managerial role, and he will be supported by Chris Gunter, Joe Ralls, Tom Hutton, and Matthew Bloxham in the technical area.
Still under contract as a player, Ramsey steps into the hot seat with Cardiff’s Championship status hanging in the balance. Two of the remaining three matches will be played at home, starting with a crucial Easter Monday clash against fellow relegation battlers Oxford United a potential six-pointer in the race for survival.
The pressure is immense, but with a deep connection to the club and a wealth of top-level experience, Ramsey will be hoping to inspire the Bluebirds to safety in what could be a fairytale start to his coaching career.
