Wrexham AFC were stuck in a rut, having played thirteen consecutive National League seasons before Hollywood came knocking. What happened next was beyond any of their supporters’ wildest dreams.
A Hollywood Revival Begins
After narrowly missing out on promotion to the football league through the playoffs in their first season, McElhenney and Reynolds took it personally. The duo’s second season as owners was nothing short of superb. They tallied over 100 points and were pushed all the way by an impressive Notts County side, who also achieved the same feat. One man in particular they had to thank was ‘Super Paul Mullin. He was an integral part of helping them achieve promotion, netting 38 times en route to the title.
After having their first taste of success since the takeover, the Red Dragons didn’t have to wait long for more as they achieved automatic promotion the next season from League Two, finishing runners-up. The new club captain, James McClean, was the marquee signing in the summer of 2023, and his performances were heroic at times. A demolition of Forest Green 6-0 at The Racecourse saw Wrexham earn a second promotion in succession. The fans flooded the pitch in celebration as they had seen their team do the unthinkable.
Building for League One Glory
After two hugely successful seasons, Wrexham couldn’t continue their relentless promotion arc. It was a busy summer in the transfer market for the clu,b with quite a lot of players departing. Noticeable signings included midfielders George Dobson on a free transfer from Charlton and Oliver Rathbone for £500k from Rotherham. They also acquired Matty James’ services, formerly of Leicester City, on a free transfer in the autumn.
Rathbone’s effort set Wrexham on their way in the game, and they beat Charlton 3-0 to secure back-to-back-to-back promotions and create history. It was a moment that we may never see again in football. A brace from striker Sam Smith secured the victory, and Wrexham were in dreamland. Smith has scored 11 league goals since arriving in the winter transfer window and formed a thriving partnership with ex-Premier League star Jay Rodriguez. He, too, signed in January for a reported club record fee. Wrexham finished second in league one completing a footballing miracle.
The Championship Awaits
Wrexham will play in the Championship next season and could be on course to make even more history. Their manager Phil Parkinson has experience at this level with Colchester United, Bolton Wanderers and Hull City, so will be accustomed to the challenge forthcoming. Under his leadership, the team have gone from strength to strength, and why shouldn’t they fancy their chances in the season ahead? Should the supporters dream of playing at the top level of English football? History proves they can, but they know it won’t be easy.
Recruitment will be key in the summer for the next season to be a success. They have already been linked with Jamie Vardy, who has a story that befits the one Wrexham created. It would be a statement of intent to the rest of the league, showing that they are here to stay. However, the wage package could make it difficult to get the transfer done, and that may be the deal breaker.
New Challenges, Same Ambition
The ownership has not been afraid to spend money since their arrival, but they will be met with clubs that also have large financial packets. Perhaps a more level playing field, but it certainly would be a mistake to count Wrexham out as they seek a fourth straight promotion and a chance of mixing with the country’s best.
Source link
