Oxford appoint former Arsenal and Wales star Ramsey as head coach

Aaron Ramsey takes up his first permanent managerial role at Oxford; former Arsenal and Wales star had a brief interim spell at Cardiff but succeeds Matt Bloomfield at the Kassam Stadium; Oxford will kick off the 2026/27 in League One after being relegated from the Championship

Aaron Ramsey has been appointed as the new Oxford United head coach.

The former Wales international takes up his first permanent managerial role at the Kassam Stadium after Matt Bloomfield left the club last week.

Ramsey, who played 369 times for Arsenal, held positive talks with Oxford United over their vacant head coach position and has impressed them with his vision, despite very little management experience.

The 35-year-old retired from playing earlier this year and had a brief caretaker spell in charge of Cardiff in 2025. He drew two and lost one of his three games as interim boss at the end of the Championship season.

Oxford were relegated from the Championship to League One last season after finishing third-bottom in 22nd place, four points from safety.

Speaking after his appointment, Ramsey said: "It's an honour and privilege to be appointed head coach of Oxford United.

"From my discussions with the club, I can sense the ambition and desire for success, which gives me great excitement about this opportunity.

"This is a moment I have been preparing for over many years. I've played under some of the best managers in the game and experienced high-pressure environments throughout my career.

"I want to use what I've learnt to bring a culture of high standards, professionalism and work ethic to this talented group of players."