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Five Years On: How Hollywood's Wrexham Transformed a Football Club

BBC Sport •
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Five years after Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac took control of Wrexham, the club's seismic transformation is undeniable. The takeover in February 2021, following approval from the Supporters Trust, marked the start of unprecedented change. Wrexham's fortunes shifted dramatically, culminating in three successive promotions to the EFL Championship. This on-field success is only part of the story; the owners' investment reshaped the club's infrastructure, most visibly at the historic Stok Cae Ras stadium. The iconic Kop Stand was demolished in 2023, making way for a new 7,500-capacity stand completed in 2027, boosting overall capacity to 18,000. Beyond the stands, significant upgrades to training facilities and operational efficiency have been implemented, though the club still lacks a dedicated training ground. These improvements have created a vastly different environment for players like Max Cleworth, who notes the 'massive difference' in facilities and support. The club's growth extends beyond the men's team. The women's side has risen from the EFL North tier to challenge for the EFL Championship title, while the academy, guided by Gus Williams and Craig Knight, aims to nurture more homegrown talent. Financially, the club's value has soared to approximately £350m, a staggering 17,400% increase from the £2m investment made in 2021. This explosive growth, fueled by global brand recognition amplified by Reynolds' social media presence (followers ballooning from 41,000 to 1.5 million), underpins Wrexham's current position as a top-six Championship contender. The club's journey from a National League side to a potential top-flight force in just five years is a testament to the owners' vision and the dedicated efforts of manager Phil Parkinson, who has delivered 125 wins in 213 league matches since taking charge. It's been a 'hell of a ride,' as defender Cleworth puts it, and the momentum shows no sign of slowing.

The club's infrastructure overhaul, particularly the stadium renovations, has been crucial in accommodating its growing fanbase and enhancing the matchday experience. While the absence of a permanent training ground remains a point of discussion, the overall investment in facilities and operations has demonstrably improved player welfare and performance. This foundation allows the team to focus on its primary goal: securing a top-six finish in the Championship this season, building on last year's historic return to the second tier after a 43-year absence. The Wrexham transformation under Hollywood ownership is a unique case study in modern football club management, blending celebrity appeal with strategic investment to elevate a community club onto a national stage.

Quick Fact: Wrexham's Instagram following grew from 41,000 to 1.5 million followers since the Hollywood takeover began in 2021.