“Never Considered Myself Football Fan”- Rob McElhenney Finds ‘Emotional Growth’ With Ryan Reynolds in Wrexham

When Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over a small club in North Wales, many dismissed it as a typical Hollywood move to boost their portfolios. However, under the duo, Wrexham AFC went from playing non-league football to currently sitting 2nd in the League One table, all within 4 years. For McElhenney, this journey has been more than just business, he has fallen in love with the sport he once didn’t care for. 

The duo frequently visit the STōK Racecourse, often cheering louder than many home supporters. From their successful docu-series ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ to receiving Catogree Three status, there seems to be no stopping the Red Dragons as they aim for another promotion under manager Phil Parkinson. McElhenney recently hosted a viewing party for his side’s win over Barnsley, where he discussed his journey so far. 

“Oh, wow! I mean, I’ve just become so close with the players, with the staff, with everybody in the town that it just becomes a space for emotional growth. I never considered myself a football fan – and now, I have devoted my entire life and a good portion of my business and an exceptional amount of my time & effort into the sport and into the town.” McElhenney told Forbes Senior Contributor, Jeff Conway. 

In the English football league system, clubs are more than just mere football teams, they are an integral part of their communities. Even non-league teams have a massive following, with local fans serving as the backbone for their clubs. The docu-series highlights how closely knitted people are with the players, and now the Hollywood duo has also joined the list. 

Wrexham’s star forward Paul Mullin recently made a cameo as the ‘Welsh Deadpool’ in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, highlighting how deeply involved the duo is with the club. Beyond football, they also have a significant stake in Wrexham Lager, a staple served at the STōK Racecourse, showcasing their relationship with the community.

“It’s all going to work out” – Rob McElhenney

Both co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are determined to continue until they make it to the top flight of English football, the Premier League. While it’s an ambitious goal, their trajectory so far suggests that in a few years, they could be playing against the whos of who in the world of football. 

“Keep at it! It’s all going to work out” said McElhenney, when asked what advice he would give his past self when taking over the club. After all, buying a majority stake in Wrexham AFC was no small feat, especially in an industry they knew little about. The It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star shared that they have been highly receptive to advice which has been key in their progress. 

For now, Phil Parkinson’s side are only 3 points behind league leader Wycombe Wanderers. While Wrexham’s European dreams came to a halt recently, the Red Dragons look favorites to another playoff battle or even a first-place finish, which would cement their names in history. Their initial investment of around $2.5 million has already significantly increased in value, and with Wrexham’s current momentum, it is poised to grow even further.