Phil Parkinson insists Wrexham A.F.C. must keep developing homegrown talent after the club finished 7th in the Championship last season with 71 points from 46 games. The Reds boss, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, says the Academy is vital for long-term success as the club prepares for another push in the 2026-27 campaign.
Why the Academy matters
Wrexham’s Academy has already produced key players like Max Cleworth, who played a huge role in their three successive promotions. Aaron James, Harry Ashfield and Alex Moore, also Academy graduates, are part of the squad for the pre-season USA tour. Parkinson says the club’s new training facility at Darland High School will help attract better young players.
What’s changing this season
The manager says the Academy will have a better games programme this season. He adds that the standard of players is improving every year, with more youngsters aiming to follow in the footsteps of Cleworth and others. The club has invested heavily in pitches, changing rooms and a gym at Darland to create a top-class environment.
The bigger picture
Wrexham scored 69 goals and conceded 65 last season, finishing 24 points behind leaders Coventry. Parkinson believes the Academy will be crucial as the club aims to close that gap. He says the story of Wrexham’s rise will attract players, but good facilities are just as important for long-term success.
