Aaron Ramsey has poured cold water on any speculation that he could soon become Cardiff City’s next player-manager, insisting such a dual role is not in his plans for the future. The 33-year-old midfielder, currently serving as Cardiff’s interim manager, set the record straight as he prepares to oversee his final game in charge—a trip to Carrow Road to face Norwich City this weekend. Cardiff’s relegation to League One has already been confirmed, casting a shadow over the closing stages of a difficult campaign.
Despite being the bookmakers’ favourite to assume the permanent manager’s role this summer, Ramsey has underlined his commitment to resuming his playing career. The lure of representing Wales at the 2026 World Cup remains a powerful motivator for him. Currently sidelined due to injury and out of contract in June, he clarified his position during a candid interview, revealing that discussions regarding his long-term future with the club have yet to begin. Addressing rumours of a potential player-manager appointment, Ramsey was unequivocal: “One day I would like to be in this position,” he stated, referring to full-time management. “I don’t think you can do both [player and manager], it would be one or the other. So, we will see. But the focus is on Norwich.”
Ramsey’s stint as caretaker has coincided with one of the more turbulent periods in recent memory for the Bluebirds. Nevertheless, the Wales international sought to put a positive spin on events, viewing Cardiff’s relegation as an opportunity for meaningful change. “I feel like this is a great opportunity now for this club and it gives it a launch platform,” he remarked. For Ramsey, the summer offers a chance to reset, build afresh, and put the club on course for an immediate return.
Looking ahead, one of Ramsey’s chief concerns is the prompt appointment of a new manager—accompanied by the right backroom staff to foster a culture of success. “There are inexperienced managers doing really well, experienced managers doing not so well! That, for me, doesn’t mean a lot,” Ramsey reflected. “Whoever is in charge, the team they bring in around them, and the trust that manager has in the team he brings in, is massive. Everyone has got to buy into that.” He stressed the importance of clear direction, not only for the playing squad but also for supporters, emphasising that “fans need clarity, players need clarity and you can build from there.”
Ramsey has previously compared Cardiff’s structure unfavourably to other professional clubs, pointing to the absence of a director of football or similar expertise at boardroom level. This lack of specialist footballing knowledge, in his view, has contributed to the club’s ongoing struggles, with a strategic appointment potentially offering a much-needed boost.
Owner Vincent Tan’s leadership has come under scrutiny, with some supporters questioning his commitment to the cause. Earlier this week, Tan issued a statement reaffirming his dedication to the club, promising a comprehensive review and subsequent changes. Ramsey, for his part, offered a measured endorsement of Tan, based on personal experience: “The conversations I’ve had, it’s evident he does care. We can all agree this season has not been good enough. Things need to be put in place in order to bounce back from this.”
He continued, “Hopefully those things do take place now and we can move forward from this position. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us.” While Tan might not be as visible as some fans would prefer, Ramsey believes the owner’s genuine passion is beyond doubt: “He has not been around as much as fans would want, but from the conversations I have with him, I know he is invested in the club and watches the games. He wants the best for this club.”
The Welshman’s rallying message has been consistent, both to his players and the broader Cardiff City community. During the club’s annual awards night, he called for unity, and ahead of their final match, he issued another plea for togetherness. “We need everyone to get right behind this club and for everyone to pull in the same direction to get out of this,” Ramsey said. “You need someone to grab the club and galvanise.”
Ultimately, Ramsey believes the appointment of a manager capable of forging a clear identity is critical if Cardiff are to regain their footing. “What’s important is the manager and the staff he brings in creates an identity that the fans can buy into again and get right behind. That’s the first step,” he said. Rebuilding that bond with supporters, he insists, will be vital as the club looks ahead to the challenge of climbing back to the Championship.
As the dust settles on a disappointing campaign, Ramsey’s comments provide both fans and stakeholders with a sense of realism, coupled with hope for a brighter future—provided decisive action is taken and unity prevails across all levels of the club.