Wrexham AFC`s recent promotion to the Championship, marking their third consecutive rise under owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny, seemed somewhat expected.
However, maintaining this momentum in the Championship presents a significant challenge. While Wrexham ascended through lower leagues as a financially strong club backed by celebrity owners and sponsors, the landscape in the second tier is different. They will face established clubs, many potentially bolstered by Premier League parachute payments, meaning Wrexham might not enjoy the same financial edge they previously held.
Beyond finances, their current squad, while strong for League One (featuring players like Jay Rodriguez and Matty James who often play in the Championship), may lack the necessary quality to dominate the higher division. Their previous performance, particularly in expected goals, didn`t always reflect a truly dominant third-tier side, indicating a need for reinforcement. Fortunately, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny`s star power can be a significant draw for potential recruits. The question now is: who might join the team for their crucial fifth season in the Championship?
1. James Ward-Prowse – The Midfield Maestro
Wrexham`s strategy for promotion involved attracting relatively well-known players who accepted dropping down a division for the club`s profile and financial package. Their current League One squad includes players capable of performing in the Championship, but they now need players with Premier League experience. West Ham could potentially provide such a player.
James Ward-Prowse, whose ground coverage in the top flight is sometimes criticized, could be a revelation in the Championship. His ability to ping deep passes and execute stunning free kicks and long-range shots would make him a superstar in the second tier, creating memorable moments for fans and streaming audiences alike.
2. Ben Davies – The Welsh Veteran
Signing Ben Davies might be slightly premature, as he remains a valuable squad player for Tottenham and a significant figure in recent Welsh football history, participating in major tournaments. While Spurs reportedly plan to extend his contract until 2026, the 32-year-old isn`t a consistent starter under the current or likely future management. A move back to his homeland, Wales, could offer him guaranteed playing time, potentially on the left side of Phil Parkinson`s back three.
3. Jamie Vardy – The Wild Card
Jamie Vardy is an almost obvious, exciting possibility. His well-known personality and off-field antics offer significant narrative potential.
From a purely footballing perspective, signing a 38-year-old might seem risky, but Vardy remains effective. His seven Premier League goals this season and solid expected goals per 90 minutes metric show he still possesses quality. Wrexham needs proven veterans who understand the league and also contribute to the club`s media profile.
4. Sergio Ramos – The Ultimate Wild Card
Signing Sergio Ramos, one of football`s legendary figures from the past two decades, would be an audacious move given his contract and reported salary at Monterrey. It would certainly challenge Ryan Reynolds` accountant. However, the question arises: what is the extensive wealth from projects like Deadpool for, if not for the possibility of bringing a World Cup and four-time European champion to The Racecourse Ground?
I will love it and I think I deserve it.
5. Dele Alli – The Talent Gamble
The story of Dele Alli, once hailed as English football`s golden boy with links to clubs like Real Madrid during his prime at Tottenham in 2016-2017, writes itself. Although his career hasn`t followed that trajectory, acquiring even a portion of his past ability would represent a significant talent addition. Serie A club Como is currently taking this gamble, but his time there has been affected by injuries and suspensions. Convincing Dele to leave working under Cesc Fabregas in a scenic Italian city for Wrexham might be challenging, considering the lifestyle difference compared to areas like Minera Lead Mines or Plassey Retail Village. Nevertheless, attempting such a signing is certainly worth considering.
