Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds has pinpointed the surprising admission that he believes has been fundamental to Wrexham's fairy-tale ascent through the English football pyramid.
The Power of Not Knowing
In a reflective social media post following Wrexham's 2-0 Championship victory over Blackburn Rovers, the actor shared the core philosophy he and co-owner Rob McElhenney adopted upon buying the club in February 2021. Reynolds told his millions of Instagram followers that the "power of embracing the words, 'I don't know'" and trusting experts has been crucial.
He elaborated that from the outset, he and McElhenney were candid about their lack of experience in running a football club. Instead of pretending, they deliberately sought out and empowered people who understood the sport, the town of Wrexham, and the deep significance of its stadium to the community.
A Hands-Off Approach to On-Pitch Matters
This philosophy has resulted in a consciously hands-off management style regarding football decisions. Reynolds has consistently stressed that he and McElhenney do not interfere with team selection, tactics, or player recruitment. Their role, as they see it, is to support, learn, and help tell the club's story through projects like the hit Welcome to Wrexham documentary series.
Reynolds previously told Men's Health that this approach is "the most freeing thing." He emphasised his comfort with "sharing power and sharing money" and stepping aside when others have greater expertise. This dynamic, he says, has also allowed them to build genuine relationships with the players, something often difficult for club owners.
The Remarkable On-Field Journey
The results of this strategy speak for themselves. When the Hollywood duo took over, Wrexham were languishing in the National League. Under manager Phil Parkinson, the club has achieved three consecutive promotions and now finds itself in a highly competitive position in the Championship.
After the recent win, secured with goals from Sam Smith and Ollie Rathbone, the Red Dragons sit ninth in the table, just one point off the play-off places. The club is now actively pursuing a scarcely believable fourth straight promotion, with ambitions of reaching the Premier League.
This ambition was backed by a significant £33 million summer spending spree, and the club is expected to be active again in the January transfer window to bolster the squad for the promotion chase. The journey from non-league to the brink of the Premier League, broadcast globally, has transformed Wrexham into one of the world's most recognised football brands.
