**Cardiff City Set for Major Squad Revamp as Club Prepares for League One Challenge**
As Cardiff City prepares for their first season in League One in over two decades, club chairman Mehmet Dalman has outlined sweeping plans to reshape the squad and make a swift return to the Championship. The consequences of relegation have triggered a period of reflection and strategic planning at the Cardiff City Stadium, with summer recruitment decisions likely to shape the club’s trajectory for years to come.
Dalman, addressing supporters and media, was forthright about the need to streamline the current playing group. “We currently have 33 players signed up, which is too large for our ambitions in League One. We are looking to reduce that figure to around 25 or 26,” he explained. The club faces a significant transitional summer, with up to eight players out of contract and many unlikely to be offered new deals. This, Dalman admitted, is both a challenge and an opportunity to refine the squad’s quality and focus.
Among those facing uncertain futures is club captain Joe Ralls. Approaching the end of his contract, Ralls played on through injury during Cardiff’s unsuccessful survival bid, demonstrating leadership and resilience. Dalman suggested that, while Ralls staying would have required more delicate negotiations had the club retained Championship status, the likelihood of his ongoing involvement is greater in the context of League One—highlighting the importance of retaining experienced figures.
Another player likely to be at the centre of contract discussions is Andy Rinomhota, who earned recognition from his peers as players’ player of the season. The club is believed to be keen on keeping hold of Rinomhota, reflecting a desire to combine experience and continuity amid the squad changes. Yet, the biggest question mark hovers over the future of Wales captain Aaron Ramsey. With his contract also ending, Dalman indicated that discussions would take place soon, acknowledging Ramsey’s deep roots at Cardiff: “Aaron is deeply committed to the club, and whatever we agree will be in the best interests of all parties.”
Unlike some relegated sides, Cardiff are not expected to offload their top talent simply to balance the books. Dalman insisted that maintaining the squad’s core is a priority, unless significant offers are tabled—which, he noted, is standard practice at any club, regardless of league position. Encouragingly, initial talks with key players have suggested that most are willing to stay and fight for an immediate return to the Championship. “We are determined to keep the team’s core together, and the feedback from these players is very positive,” Dalman added.
Recruitment strategy is set to balance ambition with pragmatism. Dalman warned that while a focus on Championship-quality reinforcements remains, it may become necessary to target proven League One performers capable of handling the unique demands of the division. With a new permanent manager still to be appointed, Dalman acknowledged such decisions would likely fall to the incoming head coach. “The approach to blending current experience with players suited to the league will be a key question for our next manager,” he stated.
A critical component in the club’s new direction is the integration of youth talent. With relegation opening up opportunities, academy graduates like Isaak Davies, Rubin Colwill, Joel Colwill, and others may be handed more prominent roles next term. Dalman emphasised that any managerial candidate will need a clear vision for harnessing this emerging generation, ensuring that the club’s future is preserved alongside immediate ambitions.
There is a growing sentiment among fans that players who contributed to the club’s relegation should remain and help atone by pushing for promotion. At the same time, supporters are excited by the prospect of nurturing a crop of talented youngsters who can thrive and potentially dominate at League One level. Many within the club believe that regular minutes in a less pressurised environment could accelerate the development of these homegrown prospects.
Overall, Cardiff City’s response to relegation is being shaped by a mixture of necessity and optimism. The transition period brings risk, but it also presents a significant chance for renewal and growth—both on and off the pitch. As the summer unfolds, attention will focus on who comes in, who leaves, and, crucially, how swiftly the Bluebirds can position themselves for a successful bounce-back campaign.