With just two weeks until Cardiff City's Championship opener against Wrexham, Brian Barry-Murphy's squad remains largely unchanged from the one that won promotion from League One. Nathan Trott's loan move has been made permanent, but no other significant additions have arrived. Omari Kellyman and Calum Scanlon have returned to Chelsea and Liverpool respectively, and Ryan Wintle was released before joining MK Dons.
Some supporters feel anxious, as while the youthful side has potential, the Championship presents a tougher challenge. Reinforcements may still come, but if the season started tomorrow, here is how Barry-Murphy's strongest XI would look.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Trott is the easiest selection after an outstanding first campaign. Perry Ng at right-back is also certain, having rediscovered his best form. Dylan Lawlor is arguably the first name on the team sheet after a breakthrough season that earned a senior Wales debut; West Ham and other clubs have shown interest, but Cardiff aim to keep him. Gabriel Osho has impressed in pre-season, offering pace and athleticism, making him a strong partner alongside Lawlor, ahead of Will Fish and Calum Chambers. Joel Bagan remains the clear favourite at left-back, though Noah Williams has impressed. Cardiff are actively seeking another left-back for more attacking thrust.
Midfield
Replacing Player of the Season Wintle is a challenge. Alex Robertson is expected to be the deepest midfielder, offering composure and control, a role he played under Barry-Murphy at Manchester City. Further forward, Cardiff's pursuit of Tromsø's Jens Hjertø-Dahl continues after a £7.8m bid was rejected; the Norwegian midfielder would walk into the XI if signed. Until then, Joel Colwill likely starts ahead of David Turnbull due to his energy and goal threat. Rubin Colwill, after overcoming injury, is the obvious No.10 with his creativity.
Attack and Strikers
The wide positions remain an area for improvement. Chris Willock has looked sharp in pre-season, Ollie Tanner is favourite on the right after strong numbers last season, and Isaak Davies has impressed in pre-season if fit. Cian Ashford is also a option. Up front, Yousef Salech and Callum Robinson are both proven Championship forwards; Salech's physical presence and goalscoring instinct give him the nod to lead the line, with Robinson able to play wider. Cardiff are also searching for another striker, likely on loan.
Cardiff City's strongest XI right now: Trott; Ng, Lawlor, Osho, Bagan; Robertson, Joel Colwill, Rubin Colwill; Tanner, Salech, Willock.
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