Cian Ashford celebrates with Rubin Colwill after scoring against Doncaster Rovers(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)
Cardiff City have secured the long-term future of one of their brightest young stars after Cian Ashford signed a new deal with the club.
The 21-year-old has committed his future to the Bluebirds until the summer of 2030, underlining the club’s determination to build around its homegrown core. Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community.
The winger, who appears to be the next cab off the rank when it comes to senior international honours, has joined a group of academy graduates, alongside Dylan Lawlor, Ronan Kpakio, Joel and Rubin Colwill and Isaak Davies, who are developing to form the spine of this League One title-chasing squad.
Ashford has enjoyed a solid campaign, making 38 appearances in all competitions and scoring five goals, including finding the net in Saturday’s emphatic win over Doncaster Rovers.
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His energy, direct running and growing confidence in the final third have made him an increasingly important figure in Brian Barry-Murphy’s side. Not to mention his admirable work off the ball, too.
Ashford first joined the club at the age of six and has progressed through every age group. He made his senior debut in April 2024 and has not looked back since, becoming a regular member of the first-team squad.
Speaking after putting pen to paper, Ashford said the agreement had been some time in the making.
“It’s been in the works for a while now. I’m happy to get it done and dusted and sign the papers. The club is in a really good place at the moment.
“This means a lot to me. I love playing here and walking out at Cardiff City Stadium. I’m delighted that my future is at Cardiff City.”
Barry-Murphy spoke of his excitement about the new deal and pointed to the winger’s rapid development as a key factor behind the club’s decision to reward him. Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
The City boss described Ashford’s recent growth as “exceptional improvement”, insisting there is far more to come.
“He’s had a really good season, but the most impressive thing about him is the growth we’re seeing,” Barry-Murphy said.
“His dedication to improve every single day will make him a special player for this club moving forward.”
The manager also highlighted the importance of retaining academy graduates who understand the club’s identity.
He described players who have come through from a young age as “the heartbeat” of Cardiff City.
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“The players who have made so much progress and come through from such a young age at the academy are the heartbeat,” he added.
“When they have so much potential and the mentality to match that, then to keep them at Cardiff City is very important. I’m very grateful to the board and everybody who has worked so hard to make this possible.”
