Ryan Reynolds Wrexham AFC has captured global attention following a stunning rise fueled by its celebrity owners. When Reynolds and Rob McElhenney acquired the Welsh club in 2021 for approximately $2.6 million, Wrexham AFC competed in England’s fifth-tier league and ranked eighth. Since then, the club’s valuation has soared to an estimated $130 million amid its rapid ascent toward England’s elite soccer levels.
Despite Wrexham’s long history as the world’s third-oldest professional soccer club, founded in October 1864, the team had largely remained in the shadows until the stars’ involvement. Their stewardship has propelled the club through a series of on-field successes that culminated in reaching the fifth round of the FA Cup, England’s oldest national soccer tournament and one of the sport’s most prestigious competitions.
Upcoming FA Cup Match Against Premier League Leader Chelsea
Wrexham’s next challenge is a high-profile FA Cup match scheduled for Saturday at 12:45 p.m. ET, where they will face Chelsea FC, a dominant giant from the English Premier League. Chelsea, recognized as one of the wealthiest and most successful clubs worldwide, represents a significant test for the lower-tier Welsh team. Nevertheless, recent performances suggest Wrexham could defy expectations.
Earlier in the tournament, Wrexham achieved a remarkable victory over Premier League club Nottingham Forest, advancing after a penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw. They also edged past Ipswich Town, a team from their own league division that was ahead in the standings, with a narrow 1-0 win.
After hearing the opponent, Reynolds expressed his excitement in an X post, exclaiming, “Home! Chelsea! Yes!” – Ryan Reynolds, Owner.
Recent Progress and Ambitions Beyond the FA Cup
Since the Hollywood duo’s takeover, Wrexham has experienced a remarkable transformation. The club won the National League title in the 2022-2023 season, earning promotion to English League Two, the fourth tier of English soccer. The momentum continued as Wrexham secured second place in consecutive seasons, leading to another promotion to the EFL Championship, the country’s second-highest league.
Currently positioned sixth in the Championship with 11 games left, Wrexham is firmly in the conversation for promotion to the Premier League. The top two teams in the league earn automatic promotion, while the third through sixth place clubs compete in a playoff tournament to claim the final promotion spot. The club now faces the dual ambition of making the top flight and advancing deep in the FA Cup.
The Significance of a Potential Upset and the Road Ahead
While Wrexham’s progression toward the Premier League remains a key focus, the FA Cup match against Chelsea represents a potential historic moment. A win over such a formidable Premier League team would mark the most significant victory in the club’s recent history, even if overcoming Chelsea and subsequent giants in the tournament appears unlikely.
This year, surprise results have occurred, such as Macclesfield FC’s stunning 2-1 win against Crystal Palace in January. Macclesfield, a part-time sixth-tier team, managed to beat the Premier League club and reigning champion, which offers hope that underdogs like Wrexham can cause major shocks.
Wrexham’s journey continues to inspire supporters, reflecting the impact of ownership from Reynolds and McElhenney. Their investment and vision have revitalized a historic club, stirring optimism for a future where Wrexham could join England’s elite soccer ranks.
Chelsea at the Racecourse! Holy crap 🔴⚔️🔵 pic.twitter.com/aC8EnLCZEl
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) February 16, 2026
