Key Takeaways:
– Wrexham AFC, bought by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, moves into English Football League (EFL) after a 15-year hiatus.
– The purchase of the soccer club, once struggling, has led to remarkable improvements.
– The club’s manager praises Reynolds as a committed investor, not just a celebrity owner.
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s Positive Impact on Wrexham AFC
In November 2020, Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took an unanticipated step by purchasing the Welsh soccer club, Wrexham AFC. Despite initial doubts about the venture, the high-profile intervention has since helped the club return to the EFL following a 15-year absence.
The Transformation of the Club
Before the actors’ acquisition, Wrexham AFC languished in the fifth division of English soccer since 2008. Despite numerous challenges, the celebrity investors have been instrumental in enhancing the club’s fortunes. Their efforts have drawn global attention to the club, with Reynolds often seen promoting it on Instagram. He also executive produced the Emmy-winning docuseries, “Welcome to Wrexham”, offering fans a glimpse into the realities of the game and behind-the-scenes moments.
Wrexham Manager Praises Reynolds’ Commitment
Further attesting to the actors’ robust investment and hard work, the Wrexham manager, Phil Parkinson, has publicly commended Reynolds for his dedication to the club. In a recent BBC interview, Parkinson celebrated the Deadpool actor’s long-term interest, implying that it extends beyond a mere celebrity endorsement.
The club manager further credited the high-profile owners, noting that their support has brought about significant backing, both to the team and the staff. He expressed optimism for the club’s future, stating, “Last year when we got promotion, I felt there were a lot more chapters to be written…I firmly believe that’s still [the case] now.”
A Bright Future for Wrexham AFC?
Wrexham AFC’s notable achievements, such as the return to EFL and securing an impressive 6-0 victory over Forest Green Rovers, underscore the successful strides made since Reynolds and McElhenney took over. Celebrating the recent victory, Reynolds posted an emotional Instagram update, signaling his sincere passion for the game and the club.
As he remarked, “A few years ago, if you had told me I would be crying tears of joy over a football match taking place in North Wales, you would be @robmcelhenney [Rob McElhenney]. Congrats to @wrexham_afc and to my co-chairman in crime. Double up the town! This is the ride of our lives.”
The Instagram post further cements Reynolds’s dedication to ensuring the club’s prosperity. With these developments, Wrexham AFC’s promising future continues to excite its fanbase, as they anticipate more accomplishments in the upcoming seasons.
Reynolds’ Entrepreneurial Ventures
In addition to his acting career, Reynolds has proven to be a successful entrepreneur, with investments in firms like Aviation Gin and Mint Mobile, along with his company, Maximum Effort. His business acumen, coupled with his dedication, appears to have contributed significantly to the turnaround at Wrexham AFC.
There’s no doubt that with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at the helm, Wrexham AFC’s future is not just secure but also looks brighter than ever before.
