After remarkably avoiding extinction and becoming the 2022-23 National League champions, Wrexham AFC has experienced an incredible transformation under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Taking over Wrexham in 2020 and transforming the once struggling fifth division club into league champions, Reynolds has become an inspirational figure for his success in resuscitating a soccer club.
The story of the club’s revival has since gone worldwide. So naturally, JJ Watt sought out his advice when deciding to join the ranks of soccer club investors. The NFL legend recently announced his investment in the Premier League-bound Burnley Football Club. With this decision, JJ Watt seemed to look to Ryan Reynolds for some advice.
Ryan Reynolds’ piece of advice for JJ Watt
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
On a recent podcast, Reynolds talked about the words of guidance he gave to JJ Watt and the reasoning behind that advice. He discussed how his own experience running Wrexham may be different than what Watt will face with Burnley. That advice was succinct: “Try to listen as much as you can”.
Reynolds believes that listening is the most important part of any leadership role, and even more so when it comes to soccer. He emphasized that having an athletic background, as Watt has, provides a useful foundation to work on. Reynolds said, “My only real advice was just to really listen because these clubs are incredibly tethered to communities and you have to go part and parcel of the community and everything you do”.
Dive Deeper: “Put a F**king Shirt On” – Ryan Reynolds Jokes About Wrexham Star Greeting Wife Blake Lively ‘Completely Shirtless’
The Deadpool star’s word to Watt is a testament to his success as a soccer club owner. According to him, he and Rob are “more stewards for the club as opposed to owners”. The story of Wrexham and its revival has been inspirational, to say the least. However, there’s still a lot to accomplish.
The road ahead is long for Wrexham
After 15 years of struggle, Wrexham recently got promoted to the EFL League Two following their National League win. While at it, Wrexham still has more to look forward to before playing in the fourth division next year. In July, Wrexham is set for a friendly tour against some of the soccer giants, including the Premier League heavies Manchester United, Chelsea as well as MLS powerhouse LA Galaxy II.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Wrexham will play Chelsea and Manchester United during their US tour this summer 🇺🇸
Big moves 📈 pic.twitter.com/rk3FE5B7Xo
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 20, 2023
Then comes the EFL League Two. Also, Ryan Reynolds has made abundantly clear, they are aiming even higher – toward the ultimate goal of reaching the Premier League. The journey will not be easy or short. But now that they have demonstrated their capability and ambition at this level, it’s clear that anything is possible.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: “Not Something I Expect” – Wrexham Superstar Paul Mullin Divulges on ‘Unbelievable Achievement’ as He Chases 89 Year Old Record
What are your thoughts on Ryan Reynolds’ advice? Let us know in the comments.