After Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney acquired Wrexham AFC in 2021, the assumption was that the Hollywood duo would infuse the lower-league club with a touch of stardust.
Yet, two years later, the narrative has evolved to one where Reynolds and McElhenney are deeply immersed in the drama and excitement of the FA Cup, football’s historic and revered competition.
Reflecting on Wrexham’s dramatic 4-3 win over Coventry City to advance to the FA Cup’s fourth round, McElhenney recounted the intense final moments of the match.
He described the experience as profoundly nerve-wracking, marking “some of the most agonizing and exhilarating minutes of my life,” as Wrexham, having once led 4-1, barely held off a Coventry comeback.
Despite being the third-oldest football club globally, Wrexham has never competed in England’s top tier but boasts a proud FA Cup legacy, including a remarkable win over Arsenal in 1992.
Now playing in the National League, the fifth tier of English football, Wrexham stands second in the league, trailing Notts County on goal difference.
Reynolds and McElhenney’s takeover, initially perceived as a move to bring prestige to the club, has included the production of the TV series “Welcome to Wrexham,” which documents their transformative journey. Promotion to League Two could be imminent, with aspirations for even higher achievements in the future.
This Sunday, Wrexham will take on Sheffield United in the FA Cup fourth round. United, who are second in the Championship, are expected to provide a tougher challenge compared to Coventry. McElhenney remarked on the distinct appeal of the FA Cup, particularly for American audiences, underscoring the tournament’s unique charm.
The owners’ genuine passion for the club has resonated with local fans, forging a deep bond between McElhenney, a Philadelphia native, and the Welsh community. McElhenney expressed his profound appreciation for being embraced by the local supporters, describing the experience as “an extraordinary ride.”