Joe Ralls has backed the man who has ended his career at Cardiff City to bring success to the club.
After 15 years of service, Cardiff captain Ralls is leaving the club this summer—but not without offering a heartfelt endorsement of the team’s future under new head coach Brian Barry-Murphy.
The 31-year-old midfielder, who rose through the academy ranks to become one of the Bluebirds’ most iconic figures, confirmed his departure with his contract expiring at the end of June.
But despite the emotional weight of the decision, Ralls expressed genuine optimism about what lies ahead for the club he’s called home for over a decade.
"I’d like to thank our new head coach, Brian Barry-Murphy, for being completely honest with me," Ralls said.
"That’s all I can ask for as a player and after our conversation I’m really excited about the future of this football club and wish him and his team the best of luck for the upcoming season."
Ralls departs as Cardiff's longest-serving player, having made 409 senior appearances and led the side as club captain for the past three years.
While discussions had taken place around a possible contract extension, both parties ultimately agreed it was time for change—on the pitch and in the dressing room.
"It’s incredibly hard to find the words," Ralls wrote in a statement to fans. "But the time has come for me to move on and for the club to go in a new direction."
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That new direction will be under Barry-Murphy, appointed last week as head coach following Cardiff’s relegation to League One.
Ralls was full of praise for the new boss and encouraged supporters to get behind the new era.
"There’s an amazing group of lads at our club who are desperate to have success here. They will need your continued support over the next season and beyond, like you always do."
Ralls’ legacy at Cardiff is substantial. He featured in both of the club’s modern-day Premier League promotions—first under Malky Mackay in 2013, then again under Neil Warnock in 2018—and earned a place among the top 10 appearance makers in club history.
"It’s always been my dream to play professional football and this club gave me that opportunity. To go on and represent it over 400 times has been beyond my wildest imagination," he reflected.
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Ralls’ departure marks the end of an era, with fellow midfielder Andy Rinomhota also set to leave when his deal ends this month.
But the outgoing captain leaves with no bitterness—only gratitude and hope.
"My proudest moment throughout my career has been leading this club and group of players out over the last three seasons," he said.
And in a message that summed up his connection with the fans of the club, Ralls added: “You are the heartbeat of this football club. When the whole club pulls in the same right direction, it’s a monumental power. I’ve seen it at its best and I can’t wait for the day we’re back to that place.”
