**Cardiff City Close to Naming New Manager Amid Boardroom Divisions**
Cardiff City are expected to imminently reveal the identity of their next manager, potentially bringing an end to an extended period of uncertainty for both fans and staff. The announcement, which many had hoped would arrive at the start of the week, has been subject to continued delays, amplifying the sense of anticipation in the Welsh capital.
It has been more than a month since Omer Riza was relieved of his duties as manager, a decision that followed Cardiff’s relegation. Since Riza’s departure, the Bluebirds have launched an extensive recruitment process to find his successor, forming a committee tasked with evaluating numerous candidates. However, conflicting reports and internal disagreements have kept the situation unresolved longer than anticipated.
Amid mounting pressure from supporters, who are eager for the club to move forward and commence planning for the upcoming campaign, Cardiff’s board continues to grapple with a number of unresolved details. While sources suggest that a decision is “close,” there remain what one insider described as “lots of moving parts.” This phrase has been repeated by several individuals familiar with the process, highlighting the challenges in satisfying all involved parties.
Much of the recent speculation has centred on Nathan Jones, manager of recently-promoted Charlton Athletic and a lifelong Cardiff supporter. Cardiff’s senior board members forwarded their preferred candidates to owner Vincent Tan after a comprehensive interview process led by Mehmet Dalman and Ken Choo. Given that this update emerged days before Jones guided Charlton to League One play-off glory, there is widespread belief that Jones is a primary target. However, prising him away from South London is no straightforward affair, as he remains under contract at The Valley for another three years.
Charlton Athletic have taken a firm stance, with local journalists insisting there is “no chance” of Jones being allowed to leave. The expectation of a significant compensation package only complicates matters, and the Addicks are understandably reluctant to lose their promotion-winning manager so soon after their success. Nevertheless, Cardiff fans are excited at the prospect, believing Jones’ appointment would be a statement of intent that could drive renewed interest and increased season ticket uptake ahead of the new season.
Should attempts to lure Jones ultimately fail, other potential options remain on the table. Aaron Ramsey, the Wales international and former Bluebird, has attracted steady support from within the club’s hierarchy since the onset of the search. Though currently contracted as a player, he is thought to have outlined specific requirements during the interview stage, including a wish for an experienced support team, input into recruitment and some autonomy over football operations. This raises the possibility of appointing someone to handle the club’s day-to-day running, creating a hybrid role that would allow Ramsey to continue playing with one eye on securing a spot in Wales’ 2026 World Cup squad.
Ramsey’s return to Cardiff on the pitch has thus far been plagued by injury and the club’s relegation, but a managerial role could signal a dramatic shift—ushering in a new project that many supporters feel is urgently required. While some back the ambitious move, sceptics argue that a steadier, more experienced figure may be needed to stabilise the club during this turbulent period.
Another candidate reportedly under consideration is Brian Barry-Murphy. Currently part of Leicester City’s backroom team, Barry-Murphy has also secured support from some influential voices at Cardiff. His appointment, like Ramsey’s, would likely constitute a longer-term project, rather than an immediate fix.
Elsewhere, Ian Evatt and Des Buckingham, both previously interviewed, appear to have slipped down the pecking order, with little noise surrounding their candidacies in recent days. Similarly, figures such as Rob Edwards and Ruben Selles are understood to be pursuing opportunities higher up the football pyramid.
As Cardiff City approach a crucial juncture, the need for decisive action is clear. The club’s supporters are demanding leadership and direction after a difficult season, and the impending managerial appointment—whoever the chosen candidate may be—will mark the beginning of what many hope is a brighter chapter for the Bluebirds. For now, all eyes remain on the boardroom as the waiting game finally looks set to reach its conclusion.