Wrexham AFC’s remarkable rise from non-league obscurity to Championship contenders has captured the imagination of football fans worldwide. Now, with another promotion in sight, club executives believe the Premier League may no longer be just a dream—but a genuine target.
From Underdogs to Contenders: Wrexham’s Journey Continues
Since the headline-making takeover by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2020, Wrexham has rewritten its history. The club has achieved a stunning three consecutive promotions, most recently securing its place in the EFL Championship—the second tier of English football.
Their return to this level marks the first time in over four decades that Wrexham will compete just one step below the Premier League. And their first challenge? A high-profile opener against recently relegated Southampton on August 9th.
“This is a ‘pinch yourself’ kind of moment,” said CEO Michael Williamson, as the club gears up for its biggest campaign in recent memory.
Eyes on the Playoffs—And Beyond
While many newly promoted clubs aim simply to survive, Wrexham has bolder ambitions.
Williamson, speaking from New Zealand during the club’s preseason tour, emphasized that this season isn’t just about consolidation.
“If we find ourselves in a playoff position come December, people should be very worried about us,” he warned. “With our mentality, anything can happen over 90 minutes. We have a real shot.”
Club ambassador Ben Tozer, a former Wrexham player, echoed the sentiment. “It’s a massive challenge, but the momentum is with us. Four years of constant progress—this club knows how to win.”
Culture Over Cash: Wrexham’s Unique Approach
In a division filled with clubs boasting Premier League-level budgets and talent, Wrexham is choosing to chart its own course. According to former goalkeeper and ambassador Ben Foster, the secret to Wrexham’s success lies not in spending, but in selecting the right people.
“Money matters, no doubt. But we focus on character. It’s not just about big names—it’s about building a team that works,” said Foster, referencing the club’s much-talked-about “no dickheads” policy.
That culture shift begins at the top. Williamson revealed that Wrexham’s staff has expanded by over 60 new hires this past year, many personally interviewed by him.
“We’re building more than a team—we’re creating a culture,” he explained. “It’s about understanding Wrexham: the town, the community, the mission. Some people had great CVs but didn’t get it. And that matters.”
Boosting the Squad: New Signings on the Horizon
As the club wraps up its preseason tour in Australia and New Zealand, manager Phil Parkinson confirmed that Wrexham is close to finalizing a key addition: New Zealand international Liberato Cacace.
The left back, currently with Italian side Empoli, has ties to Wellington, where his father owns a local Italian restaurant. Parkinson plans to visit the restaurant before flying home, noting it would be a fitting way to cap off the tour.
Wrexham’s final match in New Zealand will be against Wellington Phoenix on Saturday night, before the squad returns to Wales on Sunday.
