Wrexham AFC, the Welsh football club co-owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, is on the brink of history as it seeks a third successive promotion, pushing them closer to the Premier League. However, the ambitious owners are facing significant challenges in providing the infrastructure and player investments necessary to compete at such elevated levels.
Since Reynolds and McElhenney took control of Wrexham in February 2021, the team has seen a remarkable rise through the ranks, moving from the National League to League One. Currently third in League One with 71 points, equating them with second-placed Wycombe Wanderers, Wrexham is aiming for yet another promotion under manager Phil Parkinson. The financial backing from the co-owners has been substantial, reportedly amounting to over £2 million spent in the January transfer window to secure new players like Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez.
Despite these achievements, there is growing concern regarding the lack of a permanent training facility. For nearly nine years, Wrexham has been without a suitable training ground, having lost access to their former home at Colliers Park in 2016. As it stands, the team is forced to alternate between several temporary training sites, which impacts the players' preparation and overall development.
Brian Flynn, a former Wrexham manager, articulated the urgency of this situation, stating, "Everything a footballer wants is a proper training ground to turn up to train at every day." He highlighted that without stable and high-quality training facilities, it is nearly impossible for players to improve and maximize their potential.
Flynn's calls have echoed through the club’s community, supported by other former players including Glen Little and Ben Tozer. After observing the rapid growth and spending by the club, Little noted that further investments in the squad will be critical if Wrexham is to compete effectively in the Championship, saying, "It would be a struggle if quite a lot of those teams went up to the Championship... Wrexham have got the money to go again." This sentiment reflects the excitement and optimism surrounding the club's trajectory while acknowledging the stakes involved at higher levels of competition.
Indeed, securing additional talent is essential for maintaining competitive edge in the league. As suggested, Wrexham needs to add three or four signings to maintain their momentum should they secure promotion. The club has previously broken its transfer record multiple times since the takeover, including a recent seven-figure deal for striker Sam Smith.
While the investments on the field are noteworthy, the infrastructure off the field demands equal attention. Reynolds, whose star status has undoubtedly raised Wrexham's profile globally, remarked on the administrative hurdles facing the new training ground. He stated on the Yours, Mine, Away Podcast, "We need a training ground badly... you have to get 800 permits before you're allowed to." This underscores the bureaucratic challenges involved in establishing a facility that meets the evolving standards of the EFL.
Wrexham's CEO, Michael Williamson, is tasked with overseeing many of these developments, leveraging his experience gained at Inter Milan in similar infrastructural projects. Upon his arrival last summer, Williamson was directed by Reynolds and McElhenney to secure funding for these crucial upgrades. However, he has also called for patience from supporters, noting the complexities involved in sustaining development while navigating the demands of competitive football.
As Wrexham continues to rise, the blend of high-profile ownership and the need for practical investments in training and facilities remain at the forefront of discussions among fans and pundits alike. Former captain Tozer emphasized this point, expressing, "The big question is the infrastructure behind the club, in terms of the training ground." He highlighted the importance of solid investment in long-term growth, despite recognizing the significant financial implications at play.
While the Hollywood ownership duo has brought enthusiasm and visibility to Wrexham, it is clear that the road to elite football will demand continued saga of investment. As the club aspires to grace the Premier League—a league that remains a level away—Reynolds and McElhenney must decide how best to allocate resources. Flynn's comments resonate deeply with the ethos of a club on the cusp of greatness, signaling the need for a stable foundation that will not only attract talent but ultimately drive the team to newfound heights.
Wrexham’s journey is poised for further milestones. As fans continue to dream of reaching the Premier League, the realities of financial management and infrastructural development will define how quickly and sustainably that dream can come true. The excitement is palpable, but without the necessary facilities, the crown jewel of the Premier League may remain just out of reach.
