"I firmly believe" - Omer Riza's first words after Cardiff City sacking - He makes Bluebirds relegation prediction | OneFootball

Omer Riza has spoken out following his sacking by Cardiff City.

Summary

Omer Riza "firmly believes" that Cardiff City will survive the drop in the Championship in his first interview since being sacked as Bluebirds boss since his Easter weekend departure.

Riza was appointed as City's interim manager in September 2024 after the Bluebirds sacked Erol Bulut, and following a decent spell at the helm he was given the job for the rest of the season.

However, the 45-year-old wouldn't see out the rest of the season in South Wales, as he was sacked on Easter Saturday with Cardiff sitting second from bottom of the Championship table.

Legendary midfielder and Wales international Aaron Ramsey will be in the hotseat for the final three matches of the season, as he looks to keep the club in the second tier.

Following his dismissal, Riza spoke to Wales Online to express his appreciation to the players, staff, and the fans. He also issued a relegation rallying cry ahead of Cardiff's run-in.

What Omer Riza said after Cardiff City sacking

Following his sacking on Saturday afternoon, Riza took time to reflect on his stint in South Wales.

The former Leyton Orient boss was full of thanks to his players, staff, and the board - as well as offering some words of encouragement in the club's upcoming relegation fight.

"Firstly, I would like to thank TanSri and the board for the opportunity given to me to steer Cardiff City away from relegation," the 45-year-old told Wales Online.

"Although not quite there yet, I firmly believe we will survive.

"I would also like to thank the players who I had a great relationship with and the staff for their continued drive and togetherness to achieve this.

"This season I have had the pleasure of introducing our youngsters at the club on a regular basis, which will hopefully give Cardiff City something to really talk about in the future."

Riza expresses gratitude for Cardiff City memories

Despite being at the club for less than a year, Riza created plenty of memories that he'll hold fondly.

He vocalised his gratitude for the good times and support he received in the interview with Wales Online, following his sacking.

"To the fans, I would like to say I hope we enjoyed some moments: The Jacks at home, Watford's 18-game unbeaten run that we stopped, Plymouth's 5-0 win, and other memorable moments," Riza said.

"The support you gave me after the loss of my father, Josh, is one I will never forget and appreciate. The city, the club, the fans, players and the board. You can only do this if you do it together.

"Thank you for everything. The Ups and the Downs will make us stronger."

Riza's time with the club may not have been as successful as he would've hoped when he took the job, but it's clear to see that his time at Cardiff has left lasting memories for the former Bluebirds boss.

Now, under the stewardship of Ramsey, the former Premier League side look to avoid dropping into the third tier of English football for the first time since 2002/03.