A year on from their astounding story, Wrexham AFC have followed up by winning promotion to the Championship, England’s second division. The club’s meteoric rise has made headlines everywhere. This renewed interest was particularly pronounced after that 2020 takeover by the Hollywood actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. As the first fixtures of the new season rapidly approach, Wrexham will take on Southampton in their first match of life in the Championship on August 9th. It’s not just smoke on the waters, as Snoop Dogg, who recently became an investor and co-owner of Swansea City, is breathing down their neck.
Wrexham’s recent rise has drastically shifted its importance back into the football world spotlight. This transition has in turn attracted a roster of big-name investors and club ambassadors to the club. Club chief executive, Michael Williamson, has been the creative dynamo behind this change. Under his leadership, the staff has expanded by more than 60% – swelling the ranks to about 105 employees in little over a year’s time. Williamson emphasizes a strong culture within the organization, stating that it is essential for staff and players to work towards a common goal.
Wrexham’s Rising Ambitions
Wrexham AFC’s underdog story to the Championship has been fueled by smart decision making and a fierce loyalty to their hometown. Chief executive Michael Williamson noted the importance of hiring individuals who understand the club’s mission and its connection to the community.
“For me, it was important to bring in, especially on the senior leadership side, people who understood what Wrexham is and what we’re actually doing here. We’re not just another football club.” – Michael Williamson
Williamson has conducted in-person interviews with many of the new hires, making certain they fit Wrexham’s mold. He stated that finding candidates who grasped the significance of Wrexham as a town and a club took considerable effort.
“That’s something that took a lot of effort. We’re trying to create a culture within the club.” – Michael Williamson
Wrexham AFC’s “no d*******” policy creates a culture of teamwork and collaboration. It motivates all of the staff at the organization to come together and focus on these collective objectives. It’s this culture, indeed, that’s struck a chord with players and staff as much as audiences and has proven to be a key part of Wrexham’s identity.
High-Profile Investments and Celebrity Support
Wrexham AFC upraised the profile of the club even more by attracting noted celebrities and sports figures further raising the profile in the football landscape. Notable is the co-ownership of the club by McElhenney and fellow actor Ryan Reynolds, which has helped attract added attention and resources. One of the most high-profile appearances at games was by Oscar-nominated Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman, who has been the team’s most ardent cheerleader.
Williamson admitted that Wrexham welcomed a lot of expectations for the upcoming season, but retained confidence in Wrexham’s abilities. As they continue their inaugural Championship season, he stressed prioritizing search contractors and providing a steady foundation within the league.
“The expectation is, and Rob McElhenney will say that he doesn’t know what this word is, but obviously we need to consolidate our position in the Championship.” – Michael Williamson
Williamson remains optimistic about Wrexham’s prospects, suggesting that if they secure a mid-table position by December, they could become serious contenders for promotion to the Premier League.
“If we are able to find ourselves halfway through the season, in December, in that 3-4-5-6-7 position, people should be worried about us.” – Michael Williamson
New Challenges with Rivalry
As Wrexham basks in its fairytale finish, its fellow Welsh club Swansea City has been featured as well with Snoop Dogg’s foray into club ownership. The rap icon promised to bring his social and entrepreneurial vision to Swansea City, calling this commitment the biggest of his life outside of hip-hop.
“My love of football is well known, but it feels special to me that I make my move into club ownership with Swansea City.” – Snoop Dogg
Swansea City are now effectively in direct competition with Wrexham AFC. Both clubs are powerful engines of ambition and development for the future of Welsh football. Along with Real Madrid’s Luka Modric’s ownership interest in fellow Welsh club, Swansea City, this ownership dynamic makes the Anglo-Welsh rivalry even more interesting.
Wrexham’s chief executive Williamson acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains focused on building a strong team capable of achieving their goals. He knows all too well that going up against the big clubs takes grit and guile.
“It’s a massive challenge, don’t get me wrong,” – Ben Tozer
Both clubs continue to prepare for next season. What should fans expect? As with any fierce rivalry, expectations are heightened thanks to a heavy celebrity favoritism and mutual dedication to achieving greatness.
