Aaron Ramsey now strong favourite for Cardiff City job as Nathan Jones twist emerges
Aaron Ramsey now strong favourite for Cardiff City job as Nathan Jones twist emerges
Cardiff City's managerial search appears to be reaching a conclusion - thankfully
Cardiff City interim manager Aaron Ramsey
(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency )
Aaron Ramsey is now the strong favourite for the Cardiff City job, according to bookmakers.
The Bluebirds' managerial hunt has been dragging its feet for weeks now, with Omer Riza sacked with three games of the 2024/25 season still to go.
Ramsey took over for the Championship run-in and although he could not prevent the side being relegated to League One, he has suitably impressed during his temporary time in the dugout. Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community
The club employed an agency to help with the recruitment process, with interviews for prospective candidates taking place last week.
A final shortlist was then sent to Malaysia for Vincent Tan's perusal, with names such as Brian Barry-Murphy, Des Buckingham and Nathan Jones all believed to be in the mix.
Bookies' favourite Ramsey was also under consideration. The Wales midfielder impressed behind the scenes during his period as interim manager of the club, speaking strongly about the issues and the structures which need to be put right.
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He knows the dressing room intimately and has ideas about how the squad should be shaped.
He would also command assurances over things like the structure of the club, transfers and an experienced backroom staff, all areas which have needed addressing in recent seasons.
There is one year left on his playing deal, too, with the 34-year-old having signed an initial two-year deal with an option to extend. Another added benefit if Ramsey is chosen is that if things aren't going to plan, he could feasibly just drop back down into the playing staff while another manager is sought. Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
The feeling is that he would instantly command respect, unify the fan base and knows what "good" looks like following his stints at some of Europe's biggest clubs.
In another twist to the situation, news has now emerged via respected south London journalist Richard Cawley that Jones is set to sign a new long-term deal with Charlton.
The Welshman led the Addicks to League One promotion via the play-offs last month, with the English capital city club able to play hard ball and dig their heels in with regards to any approach from another side.
It now seems Ramsey appears to be in the driving seat to land the top job, with BetVictor, who offer the latest football betting, placing the Wales legend as odds-on favourite.
Latest odds
Aaron Ramsey - 2/5
Nathan Jones - 1/1
Brian Barry-Murphy - 4/1
Neil Critchley - 5/1
Des Buckingham - 16/1
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Ian Evatt - 16/1
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