Cardiff City was in turmoil after a disastrous start to the season under Erol Bulut, who was dismissed following a string of poor performances that left the team at the bottom of the Championship table

Omer Riza, appointed as interim manager, faced the daunting task of saving a team that had managed just one point from their first six games and scored only four goals.

However, Riza’s brief tenure has shown signs of a remarkable turnaround, making a strong case for him to be given the job on a permanent basis.

Immediate Challenges and Slow Start

When Riza took over, Cardiff were struggling, having lost five of their first six games and shipping 13 goals in the process. His first game in charge was a tough 4-1 defeat to Hull City, further deepening concerns about the direction the club was heading.

At that point, many doubted whether Riza, a relatively inexperienced coach at this level, could steer the Bluebirds away from relegation danger.

A Clear Shift in Attacking Intent

However, Riza’s impact became evident soon after. In his second game, Cardiff secured their first win of the season against Millwall, a dogged 1-0 victory that ended the team's winless streak. From there, Riza focused on unlocking Cardiff’s attacking potential, with Saturday’s 5-0 thrashing of Plymouth Argyle being the clearest indicator of his influence.

That victory, Cardiff's biggest in seven years, was a complete contrast to the defensive struggles they had under Bulut. Riza’s team showed attacking intent and fluidity, producing 49 shots across the last two matches—just five fewer than in Bulut's six games combined.

Key Players Thriving Under Riza

One of the hallmarks of Riza’s management has been his ability to revitalize key players. Rubin Colwill, long seen as a promising talent but underused by Bulut, has flourished under Riza’s guidance.

Colwill was instrumental in the win over Plymouth, scoring and assisting in a performance that grabbed attention. Alex Robertson, previously a peripheral figure, has also emerged as a central player, finally displaying his talent. By trusting these young players and giving them the freedom to express themselves, Riza has tapped into their potential, which has resulted in a more dynamic and dangerous Cardiff side.

Tactical Adaptations and Learning from Mistakes

While Riza’s early games included tactical missteps—such as a late change in the Severnside Derby against Bristol City that cost them a win—he has shown a willingness to adapt and learn.

Cardiff’s improved performances reflect a shift towards more aggressive, attacking football, which has reignited the team and lifted them out of the relegation zone. Riza’s bold decision to let players play with more freedom has injected much-needed confidence into the squad.

The Road Ahead

Although Riza has had just a handful of games to prove himself, his impact has been undeniable. The team has climbed off the bottom of the table, and the improvement in performances suggests that Cardiff City may now have a real chance of pulling clear of danger. While tougher tests lie ahead, the attacking identity Riza has instilled in the team has given both fans and the board hope.

As Cardiff City’s search for a permanent manager continues, Omer Riza has certainly made his case. His ability to inspire quick, attacking football while nurturing young talent could make him the long-term solution Cardiff has been seeking.