Vincent Tan assumed ownership of Cardiff City in 2010.
Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan has announced that the club is undertaking a comprehensive review of its “structures and practices” in response to relegation to League One.
The Bluebirds are set for their first season in the third tier since 2003 after a challenging campaign that saw Erol Bulut, Omer Riza, and Aaron Ramsey each take charge of the first team at various points.
Following Saturday’s goalless draw with West Bromwich Albion—which confirmed relegation—some supporters voiced their dissatisfaction with Tan’s stewardship.
The Malaysian businessman has defended himself against criticism concerning his perceived distance from club affairs.
“To claim that I am indifferent is incorrect and I firmly reject that notion,” Tan said in a statement.
“I follow every match and regularly communicate with both the board and the manager. As my family will attest, I am deeply invested in every aspect of the club.”
A joint statement from the club and its board of directors recognised the Cardiff City Supporters’ Trust’s calls for more transparent communication as well as the “widespread disappointment and frustration” among supporters after the relegation outcome.
“This marks the first time in 22 years that Cardiff City will not compete in either the Premier League or Championship, a situation we are intent on rectifying at the earliest opportunity,” the statement continued.
“To give ourselves the best possible chance, we have initiated a thorough review across key areas of the club.”
“This process involves the owner, the board, executive management, and relevant stakeholders.”
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Aaron Ramsey was asked to oversee Cardiff’s last three fixtures of the season, succeeding Riza who departed just a day after the 2-0 defeat at Sheffield United on 18 April.
The Wales captain managed draws against Oxford United and West Bromwich Albion, but Cardiff slipped to the bottom of the table, five points adrift of 21st-placed Luton Town before their final game away to Norwich City on Saturday, 3 May (12:30 BST).
As part of the ongoing review, the club stated that refreshing the coaching team would be a key focus.
“This will result in the appointment of a new permanent manager and coaching staff capable of building and leading a competitive squad through pre-season and into the 2025-26 campaign,” the statement outlined.
“This has already been communicated internally as the foundation of our evolving strategy.”
“We are committed to updating you on strategic developments over the summer as new appointments are made, the squad is restructured, and the club undertakes its rebuilding process.”
The Bluebirds secured just one point from their opening six matches this season, leading to Bulut’s dismissal in September.
Riza then took the helm and oversaw an initial upturn in results before the team’s form declined once again at the turn of the year.
Before his departure, Riza referred to some Cardiff fans as “clueless,” a remark for which he later apologised following criticism from the Supporters’ Trust.
Cardiff struggled to secure crucial victories under Ramsey, who acknowledged that all involved at the club must take responsibility.
“We have to own that and put things right for next season,” said the Wales international.
“This club possesses immense potential. The focus now must be on getting things right and responding positively to ensure a swift return.”