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Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s venture into British soccer via their acquisition of Wrexham A.F.C. in February 2021 marked a fascinating chapter in the sports business. The Hollywood duo, renowned for their performances on screen, embarked on a real-life journey into the heart of British soccer culture, earning praise for their commitment to a club deeply entwined with its local community.
The purchase of Wrexham, a club situated in the fifth league of the English football pyramid, cost Reynolds and McElhenney a sum of $2 million, a modest figure compared to the colossal sums exchanged in the upper echelons of soccer. For perspective, this price contrasts starkly with the multimillion-dollar acquisitions in top-tier clubs and player transfers within the sport.
Their motivation to buy Wrexham stemmed from various factors. Firstly, the historical significance of the club, established in 1864, held immense allure for Reynolds. Being the third oldest club in Association Football, it carried a legacy that resonated with the duo.
Moreover, the passion exuded by the club’s supporters and the prospect of reviving a historically significant institution contributed to their decision. Reynolds was also driven by the previous American owners’ intentions to use the club as a profit-driven enterprise, prompting him and McElhenney to save it from potential asset-stripping.
Since acquiring the club, Reynolds and McElhenney have invested significantly, pouring approximately $10 million into the club’s rejuvenation, which includes repurchasing the stadium previously sold off. This substantial financial injection has reportedly elevated Wrexham’s value to an estimated $8 million. Despite the club’s economic turnaround, the primary focus for the duo remains on the club’s growth and improvement.
Their dedication to Wrexham’s restoration goes beyond monetary investments. The celebrities’ genuine interest in soccer and the emotional connection to the club’s passionate fanbase drives their commitment. Reynolds, in particular, has openly expressed his love for the game, acknowledging its emotional highs and lows akin to a passionate relationship.
As Wrexham continues to progress under their ownership, Reynolds and McElhenney’s investment appears driven not just by financial returns but also by a genuine desire to nurture a historic club and uphold its cultural significance within the local community.