Wrexham’s Big Leap: Can the Dragons Tame the Championship?

Wrexham’s rise from the National League to the Championship has been nothing short of cinematic—and fittingly so, given the Hollywood ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. But with the glitz comes the grind, and the Welsh club is now facing its first serious test as it prepares to enter the 2024-25 season in England’s ultra-competitive second division.

One thing is clear: The eyes of the footballing world are still watching.

The buzz surrounding Wrexham’s preseason tour in Australia and New Zealand was quickly overshadowed by the news that their marquee signing, Jack Marriott, underwent emergency surgery for appendicitis. Marriott, who featured in the opening matches against Melbourne Victory and Sydney, was ruled out of the final game of the tour and is now stuck abroad, recovering and unable to fly home until fully cleared.

It’s a blow to Phil Parkinson’s plans. Marriott was expected to be a key figure up top following the departure of several forwards, including Paul Mullin—loaned out to Wigan despite his cult-hero status—and the exits of Steven Fletcher and Sam Dalby. With Marriott likely missing the season opener at Southampton, Wrexham’s attack is looking unusually thin for a team hoping to compete at a higher level.

Complicating matters further, midfielder Ollie Rathbone also picked up an ankle injury during the 2-1 loss to Sydney. Although not season-threatening, his absence disrupts the midfield balance just weeks before the start of league play.

Despite the setbacks, Wrexham’s summer activity shows intent. The signing of left-back Liberato Cacace from Empoli, for what may become a club-record fee, marks a bold move for a club that just a few years ago was scrapping in the fifth tier of English football. The New Zealand international brings pace, experience, and versatility, and already feels like a statement of ambition.

The Dragons have also brought in Ryan Hardie and goalkeeper Danny Ward, adding depth in key areas. With Marriott sidelined and Mullin out on loan, the club is expected to make at least one more addition up front. Names like Jay Rodriguez and Sam Smith have been floated, and given Wrexham’s new stature—and budget—they’re no longer pipe dreams.

Still, integrating new signings quickly is crucial. The Championship is notorious for its intensity, and slow starts can spiral. Parkinson knows this, and so do the fans. There’s excitement, yes, but also a cautious realization that this level brings weekly tests of character, consistency, and squad depth.