What a summer it has been for Cardiff City. Four new signings through the door already, two simply stunning new kits and a plethora of first team players have pledged their futures to the Bluebirds. There’s also the small matter of our debt reduction, which is possible the best news we’ve had this summer.
What a summer it has been for Aron Gunnarsson, too. He fought his way back from injury to lead Iceland out at their first ever World Cup as captain. He had a great tournament and showed just how good he can be. Just as Lionel Messi.
While both parties have had a great summer, there’s been a contract saga hanging over their heads, that is until now…
Confirmed: @ronnimall signs new #CardiffCity deal!
? https://t.co/ceMn8EtgKf#CityAsOne ?⚽?⚽ pic.twitter.com/Xsp0RbCsxC
— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) July 9, 2018
The club has today announced that the Icelandic captain has signed a new deal with the club. It’s a one year deal, taking the 29-year-old to 2019.
The news is much welcomed among Cardiff fans, and there’s no doubt that Neil Warnock will be pleased to be keeping the Icelandic international at the club.
? @ronnimall: “I just can’t wait to pull on the strip again to represent the capital of Wales in the @premierleague.”#CityAsOne ?⚽?⚽ pic.twitter.com/Txa57C64cs
— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) July 9, 2018
Gunnarsson joined the Welsh capital club in 2008 on a free transfer from Swansea City and has become one of the most important players at the club. His passion and desire quickly endeared him to the Cardiff faithful and that work rate will be crucial for Neil Warnock in the Premier League.
http://gty.im/984646944
The Iceland captain was, of course, absent for a large chunk of last season with an injury, making just 20 appearances as we secured second place in the Championship. He’s demonstrated his fitness at the World Cup, though, and will no doubt work hard this pre-season to ensure he is fully fit for the start of the season.
His contract renewal also eases the pressures on the centre of the pitch, an area that Cardiff looked light heading into the new season. It’s still an area of concern as we have less numbers than last year, but Gunnarsson signing is a big relief.
He’s experienced and knows what it’s like to suffer relegation with Cardiff City in the Premier League. There’s no doubt that he’ll do everything in his power to avoid it a second time around.
More to come…