It was one gigantic chance for the US to witness an English-type soccer experience in their own country. Not embracing the beautiful game as their number one sport initially, the efforts of a few sport-lovers and stakeholders have already transformed the mentality of the fans. And, two such people, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who own Wrexham AFC wanted to collaborate with their American counterpart and NFL legend Tom Brady to lock horns with each other in the United States. However, reports suggest the EFL has turned out to be the villain and proved to be a roadblock for it.

In the latest report by Daily Mail, the English Football League bosses rejected the three superstars’ request to conduct the game between Wrexham and Birmingham. If the deal had gone through, the organizers would have made history by holding the first official English league game outside England and Wales.

However, arranging a game outside the mainland on relatively short notice could prove challenging. The long travel followed by quick adjustments by the teams to the schedule may be a hindrance apart from timings and broadcaster deals.

With ample supporters looking forward to it, the match could have proved a game-changer for EFL. Wrexham is already driving soccer in the USA as stats earlier this year showed it’s more popular than all the MLS clubs except for Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. EFL’s Championship, the second tier in English soccer, is also popular overseas and has gained a 40% surge in foreign broadcasting.

Hence, aiming to crack a deal with Relevent Sports to market it in the USA, the game between the American owners’ clubs would have added to its popularity.

Wrexham vs Birmingham: could be a revival for Brady

McElhenney and Reynolds are already trumping the ownership game, taking Wrexham to two consecutive promotions. Meanwhile, Tom Brady will aim to make a mark as well, with a very minute say in Birmingham City. The Football GOAT became just a minor stakeholder in the club with just 3.3% of the club shares he bought last year. However, things did not go well as the club was relegated to the Championships and will play Wrexham twice in League One this season.

More importantly, the game will also be a fame-booster for Birmingham City, especially if they manage to ace the Red Dragons. But as both the clubs are running the race for promotion this season, it will be interesting to see who will triumph.