Paul Mullin’s journey with Wrexham has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with highs and lows that have captivated football fans across the globe. Since joining the club in July 2021, Mullin has established himself as a key figure in Wrexham’s rise through the English Football League (EFL) pyramid. However, the 2024-2025 season has presented him with unprecedented challenges, leaving fans to wonder about his future at the club.
Upon signing with Wrexham on a three-year contract, Mullin quickly became a sensation. He had just finished a prolific season at Cambridge United, netting 34 goals in 50 competitive fixtures. His arrival in North Wales saw him live up to the hype, scoring 26 goals in 38 appearances during the 2021-2022 National League season. Although Wrexham fell short of promotion that year, Mullin’s scoring prowess remained a constant as he netted 38 goals in the following season, helping the team achieve automatic promotion.
Wrexham’s success continued in the 2023-2024 season, with Mullin contributing significantly by scoring 24 goals in 38 appearances in League Two. His impact on the team was undeniable, as he accounted for over a third of Wrexham’s goals that season. On April 6, 2024, Mullin reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th goal for the club in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Colchester United. This achievement placed him among the top scorers in Wrexham’s storied history, sitting ninth on the all-time list with 110 goals.
However, the current season has seen Mullin’s form dip dramatically. After undergoing spinal surgery at the start of the League One campaign, he struggled to regain his place in the squad. The striker has only made nine starts this season and has managed to score just three goals, a stark contrast to his previous scoring rates. His expected goals (xG) metric is now the lowest among Wrexham forwards, raising concerns about his finishing capabilities.
Wrexham co-owner Rob McElhenney expressed his admiration for Mullin, stating, “He’s inspired millions of people all over the world with what he does,” highlighting the striker’s importance to the club’s identity. Despite this, Mullin has found himself excluded from the matchday squad for nine consecutive games, with fans growing frustrated and baffled by his absence.
Manager Phil Parkinson has brought in new talent, including former Premier League strikers Jay Rodriguez and Sam Smith, both of whom have taken starting positions ahead of Mullin. This influx of competition has compounded his struggles, as he has not been able to demonstrate his capabilities on the pitch. Waynne Phillips, a member of Wrexham’s legendary 1992 FA Cup-winning team, commented on Mullin’s situation, saying, “His season never really got going - and then, ultimately, players were brought in who have done better.”
Despite the challenges, Mullin’s commitment to the club remains unwavering. He has denied any rift with Parkinson and maintains a professional demeanor, focusing on training hard and awaiting his opportunity. Former Wrexham player Andy Morrell advised Mullin to keep pushing himself, drawing inspiration from teammates like Jack Marriott, who have found ways to regain their places in the squad.
The upcoming summer transfer window could be pivotal for Mullin, especially if Wrexham achieves promotion to the Championship. With an expanded squad and more substitutes allowed, there may be opportunities for him to re-establish himself in the team. However, Mullin’s desire for regular playing time might lead him to seek a move if he continues to find himself on the sidelines.
As the season progresses, Wrexham’s ambitions remain high. The club is on the verge of potentially achieving a historic third consecutive promotion, an unprecedented feat in its 160-year history. Mullin’s contributions have been instrumental in this journey, and while his current form may not reflect his past excellence, his legacy at the club is secure.
With the support of fans and the backing of co-owners Reynolds and McElhenney, Mullin’s story is far from over. As he navigates the complexities of his current situation, the hope remains that he can reclaim his place as a key player in Wrexham’s quest for glory. The coming months will be crucial for both Mullin and the club, with the potential for a triumphant return to form that could see him play a pivotal role in their Championship aspirations.
