When Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds purchased Wrexham AFC in 2021, few could have predicted the meteoric rise the club would experience under their ownership. In just three years, the Red Dragons have secured two promotions and now find themselves on the cusp of yet another—a potential ascent to the Championship. This remarkable journey has captured the imagination of football fans and Hollywood enthusiasts alike.
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From National League to League One Contenders
Wrexham’s rise began in the 2022/23 season when the club clinched promotion from the National League. This ended a 15-year absence from the English Football League (EFL). The following year, the team’s momentum continued as they dominated League Two, finishing second and earning a spot in League One for the first time in two decades.
Now, in their 2024/25 campaign, Wrexham have firmly established themselves as contenders for promotion to the Championship. Sitting third in the League One table with 41 points from 20 games, the Red Dragons are just three points behind league leaders Wycombe Wanderers and one point behind Birmingham City, who have two games in hand. With a solid defensive record and an unmatched home performance, Wrexham have proven they belong among England’s football elite.
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The Battle for Promotion
The League One promotion race has been fiercely competitive this season. Wycombe’s unbeaten streak of 17 matches and Birmingham’s star-studded squad have added to the intensity. Despite slipping out of the top two after a draw with Cambridge United, Wrexham remain in the thick of the battle.
League One Table: Top Three Teams
| Team | Points (Games Played) |
|---|---|
| Wycombe | 44 (20) |
| Birmingham | 42 (18) |
| Wrexham | 41 (20) |
Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman recently weighed in on the promotion race, predicting that Birmingham would secure one of the top two spots. “Birmingham City, with the squad they’ve got, should be breaking League One records and winning every game,” Goodman said. He also highlighted Wycombe and Wrexham as strong contenders for the second automatic promotion spot, praising Wrexham’s defensive prowess, which includes an impressive 12 clean sheets in 20 games.
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Key Figures in Wrexham’s Success
Phil Parkinson: The Mastermind
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has played a pivotal role in the club’s resurgence. Under his leadership, the team has developed a reputation for disciplined defending and tactical acumen. However, Parkinson has been cautious about raising expectations, recently stating, “It’s too early to talk about top-two finishes. We’re taking it one game at a time.”
James McClean: The Voice of Confidence
Defender James McClean, on the other hand, exudes confidence in the team’s promotion chances. “One hundred percent [we are contenders for the top two],” McClean said. “Looking at the dressing room we have, the quality, the character, and the leadership of our manager, I believe we’ll be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.”
Hollywood’s Influence on Wrexham’s Story
The ownership of McElhenney and Reynolds has brought unprecedented attention to Wrexham. Beyond their financial investment, the pair have actively engaged with the club and its fanbase, turning Wrexham into a global brand. Their involvement has included high-profile marketing campaigns, documentary series, and strategic decisions that have elevated the club’s profile and ambitions.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Despite their success, the Hollywood duo’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Competing in League One, a division filled with seasoned clubs and higher budgets, has tested Wrexham’s mettle. Yet, the owners’ unwavering support and strategic vision have allowed the team to flourish.
The Path Forward
As the season progresses, Wrexham face crucial fixtures that could define their promotion hopes. With Birmingham holding games in hand and Wycombe maintaining consistent form, the Red Dragons must capitalize on every opportunity to secure points.
Upcoming Matches
- Wrexham vs. Bristol Rovers: A chance to rebound and regain momentum.
- Key Clash with Birmingham City: A must-win game to challenge for an automatic promotion spot.
The Bigger Picture
Wrexham’s resurgence isn’t just about football; it’s a story of hope, ambition, and community pride. The club’s success under McElhenney and Reynolds has revitalized the town of Wrexham, drawing in new fans and inspiring local youth to dream big. Their journey is a reminder that with vision, determination, and a touch of Hollywood magic, even the unlikeliest of teams can achieve greatness.
Conclusion
As Wrexham continue their march toward a potential third promotion under Hollywood ownership, the football world watches with bated breath. Whether they secure automatic promotion or battle through the playoffs, one thing is clear: the story of Wrexham AFC is far from over. With the backing of their passionate fanbase, the leadership of Phil Parkinson, and the inspiration of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, the Red Dragons are proving that the sky’s the limit.
