How Wrexham Surged from Obscurity to Within Sight of the Premier League
In the world of football, few stories are as captivating as that of Wrexham AFC—a club that has defied the odds and captured the imagination of fans worldwide. From languishing in the National League to now standing on the brink of the Premier League, Wrexham’s journey is a testament to ambition, investment, and the power of storytelling.
The Turning Point: A Hollywood Takeover
The narrative took a dramatic turn in November 2020 when Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney acquired Wrexham AFC through their company, RR McReynolds. The takeover was met with skepticism by some but was overwhelmingly approved by the Wrexham Supporters Trust, with 98.6% backing the deal. This marked the beginning of a new era for the club .
Reynolds and McElhenney’s vision was clear: to elevate Wrexham from the depths of the National League to the heights of the Premier League. Their approach was multifaceted, focusing not only on the footballing side but also on revitalizing the club’s brand and global presence.
Strategic Investments and Infrastructure Overhaul
Under the new ownership, significant investments were made to improve the club’s infrastructure. The Racecourse Ground, the world’s oldest international football stadium still in use, underwent renovations to meet modern standards. Additionally, plans for a new training complex were set in motion, aiming to provide state-of-the-art facilities for the players.
Financial backing was also evident in the transfer market. The club broke records with revenues exceeding £10 million in the National League and transfer spending surpassing £5 million since the 2020 takeover. Notably, Wrexham set new spending records in League Two and League One, including a £2 million transfer for striker Sam Smith .
The Phil Parkinson Era
Central to Wrexham’s rise was the appointment of manager Phil Parkinson in July 2021. With extensive experience in the Football League, Parkinson brought tactical acumen and stability to the team. Under his guidance, Wrexham secured promotion from the National League to League Two in the 2022–23 season, amassing a record 111 points—the highest in the top five divisions of English football .
The momentum continued into the 2023–24 season, where Wrexham finished second in League Two, earning automatic promotion to League One. The team’s impressive form carried over into the 2024–25 season, with an unbeaten start and Parkinson being named League One Manager of the Month for August 2024 .
Historic Third Consecutive Promotion
On April 26, 2025, Wrexham achieved a historic third consecutive promotion by finishing second in League One, securing a spot in the EFL Championship. This feat made Wrexham the first team in the history of English football to be promoted in three consecutive years within the top five divisions .
The club’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the depths of the National League to the cusp of the Premier League, Wrexham’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, investment, and community support.
Global Impact and Cultural Phenomenon
Beyond the football pitch, Wrexham’s story has resonated globally. The documentary series Welcome to Wrexham, produced by Reynolds and McElhenney, has brought international attention to the club. The series showcases the challenges and triumphs of the club’s journey, highlighting the human side of football and the impact of ownership on a community.
The club’s success has also had a positive economic impact on the town of Wrexham. Increased tourism, merchandise sales, and global recognition have revitalized the local economy and brought a sense of pride to the community.
Looking Ahead: The Premier League Dream
As Wrexham prepares for life in the EFL Championship, the dream of reaching the Premier League remains within sight. The club’s ambitious plans, combined with continued investment and strategic leadership, provide a solid foundation for future success.
While challenges lie ahead in the competitive Championship, the story of Wrexham AFC serves as an inspiration to clubs worldwide. It demonstrates that with the right vision, investment, and community support, even the most unlikely of clubs can achieve greatness.
In conclusion, Wrexham’s rise from obscurity to the brink of the Premier League is a remarkable tale of ambition, resilience, and the enduring spirit of football. As the club continues its journey, fans and neutrals alike will be watching closely, eager to see how far this fairy tale can go.