Footballer James McClean will be brushing shoulders with some Hollywood stars after signing to a new club.
No the Derry man isn’t heading to play for LA, in fact he is moving to Wales, after signing to Wrexham A.F.C. – the soccer club owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Sharing his excitement at joining the A-list owned team, James said: “I now cant wait to get started at [Wrexham A.F.C.”
“The ambition and drive that this club has to succeed was a major factor in coming here, it speaks for itself and i will give every single ounce of myself to help with that.”
“Lets get to work!”
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Of course, there was plenty of excitement and congratulations as James prepares to join the club.
His wife Erin wrote: “proud of u always xx”
AFC Bournemouth and Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph said: “Congrats mucker”
Burnley and Ireland star Michael Obafemi commented: “JIMMYYYYY all the best brother”
Norwich City and national team defender Shane Duffy wrote: “Let’s go Jimmy”
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Ryan and Rob made headlines when they purchased the struggling North Wales club in 2020.
Their purchase came about after Rob was recommended the documentary Sunderland ‘Til I Die, in an effort to understand British football culture.
Deciding he wanted to make his own documentary with his own club, Rob settled on Wrexham, hoping to sponsor them. But he was in need of serious financial backing to fulfil the dream. The It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia star reached out to Ryan, who he had never met in person, and pitched him the idea.
Ryan replied explaining he didn’t want to sponsor the team, but buy them. And so they bought Wrexham A.F.C. for £2 million. In the three years since the team has improved significantly, and Ryan’s wife, Gossip Girl star Blake Lively, has taken a more active role in the club as well.
Their documentary Welcome to Wrexham premiered in 2022.
