Warnock’s Words
Former Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock has criticised the club’s decision to allow long-serving midfielder Joe Ralls to leave on a free transfer this summer, calling it a “mistake.”
Ralls departs Cardiff after a remarkable 15-year spell, leaving the club in the wake of their relegation from the Championship. The 31-year-old is currently without a club.
“I don’t think it will be straightforward to get out,” said Neil Warnock to The Athletic on his former clubs chances of bouncing back from relegation.
“It’s why I believe Cardiff have made a mistake in allowing Joe Ralls to go. Joe has still got a lot to offer at 31.
Whether it was out of the manager’s hands or not, I don’t know, but I’d certainly have looked to keep him. The manager would have had a big ally on the field.”
Ralls Words
Ralls reportedly held talks with new manager Brian Barry-Murphy prior to the announcement that his contract would not be renewed after so long with the club.
In a heartfelt social media post following his exit, Ralls said: “It’s incredibly hard to find the words after 15 years with the Bluebirds.
I’d like to thank our new head coach, Brian Barry-Murphy, for being completely honest with me. That’s all I can ask for as a player. After our conversation, I’m genuinely excited about the future of this football club and wish him and his team the best of luck for the upcoming season.”
So far, Cardiff are one of just two clubs in League One, alongside Peterborough United, yet to make a signing in the summer transfer window.
The club recently returned from a pre-season training camp in Spain, where they drew 2-2 with Malaysian Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim before cruising to a 3-0 victory over Southend United.
