Brian Barry-Murphy has emerged as the leading contender to become Cardiff City's next manager following extensive talks with the club's hierarchy. The Leicester City assistant coach appears to be at the front of the queue as the "Bluebirds" seek to end their protracted 50-day search for Omar Riza's replacement.
Cardiff's managerial pursuit has frustrated supporters since Riza's dismissal with just three matches remaining in their ill-fated Championship relegation battle. Should Barry-Murphy get the job, he would become the club's ninth manager in just four years. Not exactly stability, is it?
"We understand concerns have been expressed regarding the length of the process, and while initially the plan was to have the manager, and his staff, in place before now, the correct due diligence, however long it took, was essential to the ongoing success of the Club," – explained Steve Borley, Cardiff City Director.
The former Rochdale boss left his managerial position in 2021 before working with Manchester City's academy and then landing his current assistant role at Leicester. His appointment would conclude a search that has seen several candidates fall by the wayside.
Aaron Ramsey, Wales captain, stepped in temporarily after Riza's departure but his upcoming move to Mexico ruled him out of taking charge in League One next season. Meanwhile, Nathan Jones was heavily linked before committing his future to Charlton Athletic with a new long-term contract.
Interestingly, the lengthy wait for an appointment triggered significant backlash from supporters. The club's fan trust didn't mince words, accusing owner Vincent Tan of treating the fanbase with "contempt" over what they described as an "intolerable" delay and lack of communication.
In response, the club detailed their methodical approach, with academy manager Gavin Chesterfield revealing: "As with any recruitment process, we worked to a clear mandate from the board of directors, which led us to consider three styles - experienced managers, up and coming managers/head coaches and international based options."
A sub-committee led by Mark Allen and Chesterfield, with support from global sports agency Wasserman, has been steering the search. They've apparently been thorough – perhaps too thorough for fans' liking?
With Cardiff preparing for life in League One following their relegation, will Barry-Murphy be the man to lead their promotion charge back to the Championship? After such a drawn-out process, supporters will simply be hoping the wait proves worthwhile.