Wrexham’s rise through the English football leagues has captured global attention, and Saturday’s home opener in the Championship was no exception.
With Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in the stands, fans were treated to more than just football—it was a spectacle that blended sports ambition with star power.
A Historic Return to the Championship
After three consecutive promotions under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership, Wrexham is back in the second tier of English football for the first time since 1982.
The club hasn’t wasted a moment, making signings to strengthen their squad and aim for the Premier League.
Most notably, striker Nathan Broadhead joined from Ipswich in a club-record deal earlier this week, signaling serious intent.
A Dramatic Season Opener
Wrexham’s first fixture of the Championship season saw them travel to St Mary’s to face Southampton.
Josh Windass gave the side an early advantage by converting a penalty, and for much of the match, it looked like the visitors would start their campaign with a win.
But in true football fashion, Southampton staged a dramatic comeback in stoppage time, snatching all three points.
Reynolds and McElhenney Keep It Hands-Off
Back at the home ground, a capacity crowd watched as Reynolds and McElhenney spoke to the press before kickoff.
Both owners emphasized that they leave the football decisions entirely to manager Phil Parkinson and his staff.
Reynolds told Sky Sports, “We have a very hands-off management style. Our job is to listen, learn, and tell the story.
That’s a great position for any ownership group—to support and document rather than interfere.
We don’t make football decisions, which allows us to have genuine relationships with our players, something most owners can’t do.”
Being Fans First
McElhenney, who recently filed to legally change his name to Rob Mac, echoed Reynolds’ comments.
“It’s funny when people give us credit for the club’s performance,” he said.
“The truth is, we don’t really have anything to do with what happens on the pitch.
Our role is to be clowns, tell the story as best we can, and be respectful of what Phil and the executive team are doing.
We have an incredible team, and we get to sit back, be fans, and document the journey.”
Building a Club Beyond the Pitch
For Reynolds and McElhenney, Wrexham is more than just a football project.
It’s about creating a narrative, supporting the staff and players, and giving fans a front-row seat to a remarkable journey.
With star power, ambition, and careful management, the club is aiming not just to survive in the Championship, but to dream even bigger.
