Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 12, 2024 3:35 am GMT
Birmingham vs Wrexham: How Two Celebrity-Owned Clubs are Shaping Modern Football
As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated match between Birmingham City and Wrexham AFC at St Andrew’s, fans are buzzing with excitement. This clash isn’t just another fixture in League One; it represents a pivotal moment for two historic clubs backed by some of the wealthiest and most famous investors in American sports and entertainment.
In a season that promises to be transformative for both teams, Birmingham and Wrexham are united by their aspirations and U.S. ownership. Birmingham City’s chairman, Tom Wagner, and minority owner Tom Brady are determined to return the club to the Premier League. Meanwhile, actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are focused on building a sustainable success story with Wrexham.
American Investment Shaping English Football
Both clubs have deep American roots, with Birmingham City gaining significant backing from Tom Wagner, who leads Shelby Companies Limited and holds a controlling 45.96% of the club’s shares. Tom Brady, known for his legendary NFL career, has jumped on board as a minority shareholder. Though he lacks voting rights, Brady contributes to the club’s visibility and charm as an ambassador.
Wrexham’s ownership duo, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, made headlines when they purchased the club in 2020. With an overwhelming 98.6% approval from the Wrexham Supporters’ Trust, their acquisition has energized the fanbase and rejuvenated the club’s identity, especially after years of absence from the English Football League.
Plans for Growth
Both clubs are not just aiming to survive; they are preparing for ambitious growth plans:
- Birmingham City:
– Plans to construct a new stadium exceeding 60,000 seats by 2029.
– Estimated cost for the project ranges between £2 billion to £3 billion, aiming to create a “Sports Quarter” in the city.
– Wagner remains undeterred by recent relegation, insisting it won’t affect the planned investments.
- Wrexham AFC:
– Aiming to increase the capacity of the existing Racecourse Ground to 55,000.
– Plans already underfoot for a new 5,500-seater stand after demolishing the old Kop section in January 2023.
– Reynolds and McElhenney emphasize the importance of building a sustainable club capable of thriving in the Premier League.
Both clubs’ plans exemplify the trend of American investors focusing on English football, with hopes of both immediate success and long-term viability.
On-field Performance
The financial backing from their celebrity owners has translated into tangible improvements on the pitch. Both clubs are showing promise early in the League One season:
- Wrexham:
– Currently sits atop League One, having made a strong start with an unbeaten record.
– The team has focused on solid defensive play, achieving four consecutive clean sheets.
- Birmingham:
– In fourth place with 10 points and one game in hand.
– Under the management of Chris Davies, the club has adopted a possession-focused style, leading to increased goal production.
Despite different styles and approaches, both clubs share a common goal: to ascend to higher tiers of English football.
Financial Strategies
The financial muscle behind both clubs gives them a competitive edge when it comes to recruitment:
- Birmingham:
– Made significant moves in the summer transfer window, signing 13 first-team players.
– Notable acquisition of forward Jay Stansfield shattered previous League One transfer records.
– The club profited by selling youth player Jordan James for £8 million, further strengthening their financial position.
- Wrexham:
– Invested heavily in new players, acquiring highly-rated midfielder Ollie Rathbone and breaking club transfer records.
– Retained most of the previous season’s successful squad while integrating new talents, ensuring continuity and competitiveness.
Both teams are positioned as favorites for promotion, which speaks volumes about the ambitious targets set by their ownership.
Celebrity Influence in the Football World
The involvement of prominent celebrities has not only enhanced the clubs’ profiles but has also captivated a wider audience:
- Ryan Reynolds:
– With an estimated net worth of £300 million, he merges his Hollywood star power with a keen business acumen.
– His recent investments and success in various ventures, including selling a gin brand, contribute to his financial portfolio.
- Tom Brady:
– Valued at around £228 million, the seven-time Super Bowl champion continues to leverage his sports fame post-retirement.
– His affiliation with Birmingham City adds a layer of appeal that goes beyond football.
- Rob McElhenney:
– The co-founder of the long-running series “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” he brings an engaging presence that resonates with the club’s community focus.
– His investments extend beyond football, showcasing a broader interest in promoting creative content.
The presence of these high-profile owners has not only revitalized the clubs’ ambitions but has also carved a unique place for celebrity culture within English football.
As the teams get ready for their big game, everyone is excited. It’s not just about winning; it’s also about the stories of hard work and change in English football. Famous people joining forces with traditional clubs is making a big difference, bringing in lots of attention and money. With a proud history and hopes for what’s to come, both Birmingham City and Wrexham AFC are set for a season that looks like it will be amazing!
