Wrexham AFC striker Paul Mullin has seen his season-long loan move to Wigan Athletic abruptly ended, with the League One club opting to cut short his spell this month.
Loan Spell Fails to Ignite
The 31-year-old forward, a pivotal figure in Wrexham's remarkable rise under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, joined Wigan last summer after falling down the pecking order. However, his time at the DW Stadium proved underwhelming, with Mullin managing just five goals in 26 appearances across all competitions for the Latics.
This marked a stark contrast to his prolific form in previous seasons for the Red Dragons. Mullin was instrumental in the club's back-to-back promotions, firing in 38 goals in the 2022-23 National League title win and following that with 24 in League Two the following season. His output dwindled in League One last term, where he scored only three times, leading to the initial loan decision.
Wrexham Confirm Early Return
In an official statement released on Monday, Wrexham confirmed the development. "Wrexham AFC can confirm Wigan Athletic have chosen to activate the break clause in Paul Mullin's loan contract, and the striker will return from his spell with the Latics this month," the club said.
The statement hinted at further uncertainty regarding the fan favourite's future, adding: "The Club will assess Mullin on his return and, having only represented one Club in all competitions this season, explore all possible options for the striker's future." Mullin's contract with Wrexham runs until the end of the 2025-26 season.
Reynolds Pays Tribute as Future Hangs in Balance
Mullin's departure from the first-team picture at the STōK Cae Ras began last January following a reported disagreement with manager Phil Parkinson. The subsequent signings of forwards Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez further marginalised the striker.
Upon his loan move in the summer, Mullin posted a classy farewell on social media, urging the club to "keep the train rolling." Co-owner Ryan Reynolds also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram this week, posting a highlights reel set to Mullin's fan chant. "I can't imagine seeing Mulls on loan and in another kit," Reynolds wrote. "We wouldn't be where we are without his heart, skill and work ethic."
With his loan now terminated, all eyes will be on whether Paul Mullin has a future at the club he helped catapult into the football league spotlight, or if this marks the beginning of the end of his iconic Wrexham chapter.
