Calum Scanlon is back at Cardiff on a season-long loan from Liverpool for the 2026-27 Championship season. The left-back is returning after helping the Bluebirds win promotion at the first attempt, and the move gives Brian Barry-Murphy another defensive option for the months ahead.
Scanlon's first spell at Cardiff
Scanlon joined in February and made eight appearances in League One. He spent a short spell there, but it was long enough to leave Cardiff convinced he can be part of the next step.
He said: "I'm grateful for the experience I've already had here and I can't wait to make new memories at the club," Scanlon said. He also added: "I'm ready to go, it's been a positive pre-season getting minutes. It was good for me. My body is ready for the season."
Competition and a quick return to action
Scanlon will battle for starts with Joel Bagan, so his role will have to be earned again rather than handed back automatically. Cardiff's league season starts at home against Welsh rivals Wrexham on Monday at 20:00 BST, which gives the loan move immediate relevance.
There is also a recent lift in the background. Cardiff beat Wrexham 2-1 in the League Cup on 28 October 2025, their latest verified meeting, and they go into the new campaign with Scanlon back in the squad and ready to compete for minutes.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →
