Wrexham’s journey under Hollywood ownership has been a remarkable success story, marked by promotions, global attention through the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. However, this success has come at a cost, with numerous players departing as the club evolves. Despite the tough decisions, Wrexham’s owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, ensure that those who played a part in the club’s rise are remembered and appreciated, balancing ruthlessness with gratitude.
Ange Postecoglou's humorous quip about TV shows killing off main characters resonates unexpectedly with Wrexham's ongoing narrative. Following Tottenham Hotspur's Europa League triumph, Postecoglou hinted at a bright future before making a surprise exit from the north London club weeks later. Similarly, Wrexham, under the spotlight of the Disney+ documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham,' continues its ascent, but not without some heart-wrenching farewells.
The documentary has turned several Wrexham players into global icons, chronicling their personal stories and contributions to the club's remarkable journey. However, as Phil Parkinson continually refines his squad to meet the demands of higher leagues, some fan favorites inevitably face the exit door. Despite heartfelt goodbyes from celebrity co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney on social media, the reality remains: Wrexham's success requires ruthless decisions.
The 'Welcome to Wrexham' series has offered an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the club, delving into emotive issues, showcasing the local community, and promoting the Welsh language. From disability liaison officer Kerry Evans to pub owner Wayne Jones and dedicated fan Shaun Winter, the documentary highlights individuals who contribute to the club's unique identity. It also captured the story of Millie Tipping, an autistic fan who enjoys home matches from a designated quiet zone at the Racecourse Ground, and Humphrey Ker's fundraising efforts for the Wrexham Miners Project, raising over £125,000 by running the Manchester marathon.
While the club has faced relentless, and sometimes unimaginative, jibes from rival fans about their documentary, Wrexham seems to have adopted the attitude, "don't worry, we will include it." The player's tales have captured supporters' hearts and elevated the team to celebrity status. Paul Mullin, Wrexham's prolific striker, became a headline act, culminating in his book, 'My Wrexham Story.' The documentary also explored Mullin's relationship with Reynolds and McElhenney, and his son Albi's autism diagnosis. Jordan Davies and his partner Kelsey Edwards shared their heartbreaking loss of their baby Arthur during the Covid-19 pandemic, while Aaron Hayden discussed the importance of mental support and family time.
However, Wrexham's rapid progress has led to difficult choices, with numerous players departing as new talent arrives. The list of players who have left under Reynolds and McElhenney's ownership is extensive. In 2021, Mark Carrington, Bobby Grant, and others departed. In 2022, Tyler French, Dior Angus, and several more followed suit. The exodus continued in 2023 with Jake Hyde, Reece Hall-Johnson, and others. 2024 saw the departure of Aaron Hayden, Rob Lainton, and a host of other key players. And in 2025, Sam Dalby, Mark Howard, Steven Fletcher, and others moved on, some on loan, marking a significant turnover in the squad.
Following promotion from League One, Wrexham signed 13 players to bolster their squad for the Championship. This influx led to the departure of prominent forwards like Mullin and Palmer, who were gradually phased out during the previous season. Mullin joined Wigan Athletic on loan, while Palmer moved to Swindon Town. Jack Marriott, Will Boyle, and others were also released to make room for new arrivals. Even players who played crucial roles in the club's rise, such as Ben Foster, Ben Tozer, James Jones, and Luke Young, have been shipped out.
Recently, defender Eoghan O'Connell, one of the few players to feature in all three of the club's promotions, parted ways with the club by mutual consent. Despite criticisms labeling Wrexham as 'Disney FC,' the club's operating methods prioritize success while acknowledging the contributions of past players. Wrexham hasn't forgotten those who played their part in the journey.
Steven Fletcher, who scored consistently in his two seasons with the club, received a warm embrace from McElhenney and Reynolds at Wrexham's first home Championship game against West Bromwich Albion. Reynolds praised Fletcher's impact on the club and the town. Similar messages have been a common theme, reflecting the strong relationships built between the ownership, squad, and staff. Reynolds described Palmer's departure as a 'gut punch,' emphasizing his significant role in the club's success. While the cycle of 'killing off' characters continues, Wrexham strives to ensure it's a respectful farewell rather than a dismissive goodbye.