Ryan Reynolds, co-owner of Wrexham A.F.C. alongside Rob McElhenney, recently revealed details about his involvement in the football club’s management. After purchasing the team in 2021 through their company RR McReynolds Company LLC via Wrexham Holdings LLC, the club reached a historic milestone by becoming the first in the top five divisions of English football to achieve three successive promotions.
On August 16, 2025, Reynolds and McElhenney attended Wrexham A.F.C.’s home game at the Stok Cae Ras stadium. This match marked the club’s first home appearance in the English football second tier since May 1982. Despite high hopes, Wrexham lost 3-2 to West Bromwich Albion, leaving the team without points after two games of the season.
The Owners’ Hands-Off Management Style Explained
In an interview with Sky Sports before the game, Reynolds and McElhenney clarified their managerial role, emphasizing a minimal interference approach. Reynolds stated,
We have a very hands-off management style,
adding that their primary responsibility is to
listen, learn, and tell the story.
He went on to describe this as an ideal situation for any ownership group,
to really just be there to support and tell the story,
allowing them to connect with the players without being involved in tactical decisions. Reynolds called this a great gift, which provides them the chance to build personal relationships with each player on the squad, a dynamic uncommon among football club owners.
McElhenney affirmed the separation of duties by explaining how unusual it is for owners to refrain from direct influence on game-related choices. He remarked,
We’ve got our very specific job,
which he defined as
to be clowns and to tell the story as best we can.
The actor further expressed respect for the club’s staff, saying,
But also to be as respectful as we possibly can to what Phil [Parkinson] does on the pitch and what the executive team, Michael [Williamson], Shaun [Harvey], and Humphrey [Ker], and everybody does off the pitch.
McElhenney concluded,
We just have an incredible team and we just get to sit back and be fans and document the process.
Maintaining Supportive Ownership Amidst Challenges
The restrained approach from Reynolds and McElhenney highlights a management style rooted in trust and respect for the club’s football and executive staff. While the recent game result added pressure early in the season, the owners’ focus remains on telling Wrexham’s evolving story and supporting the team in a way that preserves strong connections with players and fans alike.
Their involvement, framed by patience and observance, positions Wrexham A.F.C. for continued growth and highlights how celebrity ownership can differ from traditional hands-on management in football. Moving forward, the club looks to build on its historic promotion streak, with ownership committed to fostering community and narrative, rather than direct interference in on-field operations.
