Cardiff Interim Manager Omer Riza Travels to Malaysia for Talks with Owner Vincent Tan

Omer Riza, who initially joined Cardiff City as a coach during the summer under then-manager Erol Bulut, has traveled to Malaysia for discussions with the club’s owner, Vincent Tan, in his capacity as interim manager. The 44-year-old Riza had been seeking clarification regarding his role, having occupied the temporary managerial position since Erol Bulut’s departure two months prior. The outcome of these in-person discussions, specifically whether they indicate Riza will be offered the opportunity to manage the Championship team permanently, remains undisclosed. After the team’s loss to Blackburn Rovers last weekend, the former Watford coach had stated his uncertainty about remaining in his role with Cardiff following the ongoing international break. Cardiff had expressed an interest in considering all potential managerial candidates after Bulut’s dismissal on 22 September, which occurred after the team secured only one point from their initial eight league matches of the 2024-25 season. Riza’s appointment was intended to provide the club with time to conduct a thorough search for a new manager, a process overseen by chief executive Ken Choo. However, there was also an inclination to afford Riza an opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities, particularly after the former Arsenal player conveyed his confidence in succeeding in the position. Despite his limited experience in frontline management, Riza has presided over a noticeable enhancement in both team performance and playing style, accumulating 14 points across his nine matches at the helm. It is reported that Riza has maintained a positive relationship with Tan throughout his tenure, characterized by frequent telephone discussions between them. Nevertheless, this meeting marks their initial face-to-face interaction, and it is anticipated that some degree of clarity regarding the situation will emerge from it. Calls for the club to reach a prompt decision have been made, notably by former Cardiff and Wales striker Nathan Blake.