Wrexham AFC has officially announced the signing of striker Ryan Hardie from Plymouth Argyle, marking their first acquisition since securing promotion to the Sky Bet Championship. The 28-year-old Scotsman has penned a contract extending through to the end of the 2027-28 season, embarking on a new chapter at The Racecourse Ground after an impressive five-and-a-half years with the Pilgrims.
Born in Stranraer, Scotland, Hardie's football journey began at Rangers, where he made 17 senior appearances and gained valuable experience through loan spells at Raith Rovers, St Mirren, and Livingston. In July 2019, he transferred to Blackpool, before initially joining Plymouth on loan in January 2020. During that initial stint, he made an immediate impact by scoring in each of his first three substitute appearances, contributing seven goals in 13 games as Plymouth earned promotion from League Two.
Hardie’s connection with Plymouth deepened as he returned on loan for the 2020-21 season, later making the move permanent in January 2021. Over the subsequent years, he became a cornerstone of the team, netting 74 goals in 248 appearances and playing a pivotal role in the club’s rise through the English Football League tiers. His goal-scoring feats included a hat-trick at Crewe Alexandra, a crucial double against Exeter City, and a memorable penalty that knocked Premier League champions Liverpool out of the FA Cup in February 2025.
Last season, despite Plymouth's relegation to League One, Hardie maintained his form by finishing as the club’s leading scorer with 12 goals in all competitions. This achievement earned him the 2024-25 Player of the Year award, underscoring his importance to the side. Notably, on February 1, 2025, he scored his 100th career goal against West Bromwich Albion at Home Park, a milestone celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
Wrexham’s acquisition of Hardie reportedly involved a fee in the region of £700,000, facilitated by a reduced release clause following Plymouth’s relegation. This strategic signing reflects Wrexham’s ambition as they prepare for their first Championship campaign in 43 years, a return to English football’s second tier that has generated significant excitement among supporters and the football community.
Hardie expressed his enthusiasm about joining Wrexham, stating on the club’s official website, "I’m delighted to get the move done, I’m really happy to get it done so early and I cannot wait to get going. To get a full pre-season will be a massive benefit, to get integrated into the squad and learn the way the manager plays and get to know everyone will be important." He emphasized the value of his recent Championship experience, adding, "The last couple of seasons, it’s been good getting experience in the EFL Championship and it’s experience I can lean on now. I’ve enjoyed playing there, and I’ve managed to score a few goals, so hopefully that can continue this season."
Hardie also highlighted his appreciation for Wrexham’s community spirit, remarking, "I love how family-oriented the club is, the community is all together and it really is a one-club city. Everything is to do with the football, and I’m really excited to be a part of that – I’ll give everything I’ve got for the badge." His words reflect the tight-knit culture fostered at the club, which has been amplified by the high-profile ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney and the global attention brought by the Disney+ documentary series chronicling the club’s journey.
Manager Phil Parkinson welcomed Hardie warmly, stating, "I’m delighted to welcome Ryan Hardie to the club. We’re looking forward to working with him and I’m sure everyone will give him a warm welcome to the STōK Cae Ras." Parkinson’s squad already features a strong attacking lineup including Sam Smith, Jay Rodriguez, Paul Mullin, Ollie Palmer, and Jack Marriott. The addition of Hardie adds depth and versatility as Wrexham aims to compete robustly in the Championship.
Sports reporter Brent Pilnick of BBC Sport provided analysis on Hardie’s playing style and recent form, noting, "Wrexham will be getting a seasoned Championship scorer in Hardie. The pacey Scot enjoys playing off the shoulder of the last defender and is an excellent finisher – provided he can get the service." Pilnick also highlighted Hardie’s fluctuating goal-scoring spells, explaining, "When he has been in systems which suit his style of play – such as under Steven Schumacher and latterly Miron Muslic – he has proved an excellent weapon, but he is prone to long spells without goals as well – he got just two under Wayne Rooney in the first half of last season before scoring 10 under Muslic from the start of February." This insight suggests that Hardie’s success at Wrexham may hinge on tactical alignment and consistent service from teammates.
Hardie’s arrival coincides with a period of transition for Wrexham, who are bolstering their squad to meet the demands of Championship football after three consecutive promotions. The club’s pre-season tour to Australia and New Zealand next month will provide Hardie and his new teammates with vital preparation ahead of the league campaign starting in August 2025.
Interestingly, Hardie will be reunited with former Plymouth teammates Callum Burton and Dan Scarr at Wrexham, both of whom were part of the Pilgrims’ 2022-23 League One title-winning squad. This reunion could foster on-field chemistry and ease Hardie’s adaptation to his new club.
As Wrexham fans eagerly anticipate the new season, Hardie’s signing symbolizes the club’s commitment to assembling a competitive and experienced squad capable of sustaining their Championship status. His proven goal-scoring record, Championship experience, and professional attitude position him as a valuable asset in Wrexham’s ambitious project.
With a full pre-season ahead and the backing of a passionate fanbase, Ryan Hardie’s journey at Wrexham is set to be a compelling story to follow. Whether he can replicate his prolific form and help the Dragons establish themselves in the Championship remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising for both player and club.
