Cardiff City sack Omer Riza amid "clueless" jibe, appoint familiar face as interim head coach

Cardiff City have announced the sacking of head coach Omer Riza.

Earlier this week, Riza branded a small section of Cardiff's fanbase as "clueless" in response to criticism that he claimed had gotten "a little too personal".

The comments came on the back of Cardiff dropping into the Championship relegation zone and a further defeat followed on Friday evening as the Bluebirds lost 2-0 at promotion-chasing Sheffield United.

With Cardiff one point adrift of safety with three matches remaining, the Cardiff hierarchy have made the decision to part ways with Riza.

Cardiff City FC can confirm that Omer Riza has been relieved of his duties as First Team Manager.

Aaron Ramsey will lead the Club for the remaining three games of the Championship season, beginning with Monday's match at home to Oxford United.#CityAsOne

— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) April 19, 2025

Cardiff promote Ramsey to dugout

A statement read: "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, beginning with Monday's match at home to Oxford United.

"Chris Gunter, Joe Ralls, Tom Hutton, Matthew Bloxham and Gavin Ward will join Aaron in the technical area.

"We'd like to thank Omer for his passion and effort during his time as Cardiff City manager and wish him the very best for his next steps in the game."

Riza departs his role at the Welsh outfit having recorded 10 wins, 15 draws and 15 defeats from his 40 matches in charge.

© Imago

Ramsey gets short-term role

Aaron Ramsey has been restricted to just six starts and two substitute outings in the Championship this campaign, his last appearance coming back on March 11.

The 34-year-old will now prioritise his time in the dugout for the coming three games in a bid to get his boyhood club out of trouble.

His opening two matches are at home to Oxford United and West Bromwich Albion, before Cardiff travel to Norwich City on the final day of the season.