Simon Jordan, the former Crystal Palace owner and talkSPORT presenter, has had a change of heart regarding his views on Wrexham’s Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Jordan, who had previously been critical of the duo’s long-term commitment to the Welsh club, now admits he underestimated the scale of their ambition. This shift in perspective comes after Wrexham’s remarkable journey from the National League to the League One automatic promotion spots under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership.
In the past, Jordan had made jibes at Reynolds and McElhenney, questioning their dedication to Wrexham. He had even mocked the difference in fame between the two owners. However, with Wrexham’s success and rise in prominence, Jordan now supports the Red Dragons’ potential to reach the Premier League in the coming years. He has acknowledged the excitement and interest that Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership has brought to the club, despite his earlier scepticism.
The talkSPORT host faced backlash from Wrexham fans and was accused of being envious of the actors by his co-host, Jim White, prompting him to reconsider his stance. Jordan now recognises the significant traction and commercial investments that Reynolds and McElhenney have brought to Wrexham, leading to the club’s improved financial standing and potential for growth.
With Wrexham leading Wycombe Wanderers in the race for automatic promotion to the Championship, the club is aiming for higher success in the football pyramid. Jordan now believes that Wrexham, along with Birmingham City, who recently secured promotion to the Championship, could potentially make it to the Premier League within the next few years. This optimism marks a stark contrast to his previous reservations about the Hollywood owners’ involvement in the club.
The financial figures of Wrexham also reflect the impact of Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership, with the club’s annual turnover soaring to £26.7 million, largely attributed to the global interest sparked by the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary. Despite impressive commercial partnerships and sponsorship revenue, Wrexham still reported a loss of £2.7 million in the past year, a decrease from previous deficits.
As Wrexham continues its journey towards potential promotion and further success, the club’s partnership with Reynolds and McElhenney has undoubtedly revitalised its image and financial prospects. With Jordan now backing the Hollywood owners and recognising their contributions to Wrexham’s resurgence, the future looks promising for the Red Dragons as they aim for greater heights in the world of football.