It has been a transformative half-decade for Wrexham AFC since Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took charge. The duo laid out a series of "hard promises" to supporters in November 2020, a mission statement that pitched their ambitious vision for the historic Welsh club. Now, with the club enjoying a meteoric rise from the National League to the Championship and becoming a global phenomenon, it is time to grade their performance against those initial pledges.
Investment and On-Field Success: Top Marks
The most visible area of delivery has been in comprehensive financial backing. The co-owners have invested heavily in the squad, attracting manager Phil Parkinson and funding key signings like Paul Mullin and Elliot Lee. Their commitment was underscored by a £33 million summer spend in 2025, including a club-record £7.5 million for Nathan Broadhead from Ipswich Town.
This investment, coupled with a modernised backroom staff, has fuelled three consecutive promotions. Off the pitch, they have also expanded the club's permanent staff from just 40 to 120, appointing a high-profile CEO in former Inter Milan executive Michael Williamson. Their respect for the club's heritage is clear, having guaranteed no relocation or rebranding and meticulously honouring the Gresford Colliery Disaster. Club legend Dixie McNeil also remains as honorary president.
Infrastructure and Community: A Mixed Report
Progress on major infrastructure projects has been slower. The redevelopment of the Racecourse Ground's Kop stand has faced delays due to planning, funding, and site issues. The original design for a 5,500-seat stand has been revised to hold 7,750, but final approval is pending. While site work has begun, and the stadium hosted the Kings of Leon in 2023, the project remains incomplete.
Similarly, the pledge to build a permanent training facility worthy of an EFL club is unfulfilled. The team currently trains at the borrowed Colliers Park facility, with the club acknowledging a new complex is a "three-to-five year process." The establishment of a fan advisory board has also been tentative, with its effectiveness still under review by many supporters.
Final Verdict and Future Sustainability
Communication, initially a weak point, has improved to a good standard, with owners engaging via fan podcasts. However, ecological sustainability scores poorly, given the club's reliance on chartered flights. The ultimate promise—to leave the club in a better state—is being actively pursued. The arrival of new minority investors, like the Allyn family, provides financial ballast for a push towards the Premier League.
Overall, Reynolds and McElhenney have delivered spectacularly on the core footballing and commercial ambitions, creating a global brand documented in Welcome to Wrexham. While infrastructure lag and some community engagement aspects need work, the report card after five whirlwind years is overwhelmingly positive, with the club's trajectory pointing firmly upwards.
