Wrexham AFC's American Adventure: From Hollywood to the U.S. Pitch

Created: JANUARY 25, 2025

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's Wrexham Association Football Club is crossing the pond for a U.S. tour, giving American fans of the hit docuseries "Welcome to Wrexham" a chance to see their favorite players and coach in person. This tour comes after the team's remarkable promotion back to League Two, the fourth tier of English football, after a 15-year absence.

The docuseries has catapulted previously unknown figures like manager Phil Parkinson and striker Paul Mullin into the spotlight. Mullin, in particular, is experiencing a level of fame usually reserved for Premier League stars, thanks to appearances on Reynolds' massive social media following.

Wrexham's American tour will see them face off against prominent clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United, as well as LA Galaxy II and Philadelphia Union II, in venues across North Carolina, California, and Pennsylvania. This tour serves not only as crucial preparation for their return to League Two but also as a strategic move to cultivate a larger American fanbase.

The investment by Reynolds and McElhenney goes beyond simply owning a football club; it's about transforming Wrexham into a global brand. Their initial $2.5 million investment in 2021 has fueled significant player acquisitions, stadium improvements, and ultimately, the team's promotion. This success, combined with the popularity of "Welcome to Wrexham," has attracted major sponsors like TikTok, United Airlines, Stok, and Betty Buzz, demonstrating the owners' savvy in expanding the club's reach beyond the pitch.

Ryan Reynolds celebrating with Wrexham AFC

A key figure in Wrexham's recent success is former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster. Foster, who came out of retirement to join the team, made a crucial penalty save in the final weeks of the season, securing their promotion. He has since signed a one-year contract, citing the club's welcoming atmosphere as a key factor in his decision.

The promotion was a testament to the team's talent and the owners' vision. Players like Mullin were drawn to the project's ambition and financial backing. While the fourth division presents a tougher challenge, the ambition remains clear: continued success on the pitch and expanding the club's global presence. The second series of "Welcome to Wrexham" is highly anticipated, promising to capture the drama and excitement of the team's journey.

With Reynolds and McElhenney at the helm, Wrexham's future looks bright, both on and off the field. Their blend of Hollywood star power and genuine passion for the sport has created a unique and captivating narrative, leaving fans eager to see what the next chapter holds.

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