- Reynolds is best known for his work as Marvel’s Deadpool
- Is also co-owner of underdog football side Wrexham
- Could be bringing his team down under
Hollywood heavyweight Ryan Reynolds may soon be touching down in Australia, with his football club Wrexham AFC reportedly set to face off against Melbourne Victory in a blockbuster friendly later this year.
Wrexham, a historic Welsh football club founded in 1864, has risen to global fame thanks to its new owners, Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney.
The pair stunned the football world in 2020 when they purchased the then-struggling side with the dream of restoring it to former glory.
Since the takeover, Wrexham’s story has captivated audiences worldwide through the popular documentary series Welcome to Wrexham.
The show follows the journey of two Hollywood stars navigating the unpredictable world of football ownership and showcases the pride and resilience of the Wrexham community.
Currently, Wrexham sits second in League One, England’s third-tier competition, and is well-positioned for promotion to the Championship.
Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney could be bringing the club to Australia for a friendly
Reynolds is best known for his work as Marvel character Deadpool, pictured alongside Aussie actor Hugh Jackman as Wolverine
A step up would put them just one division away from the Premier League.
Despite playing in the third tier, Wrexham’s fame far outweighs their league position, largely due to the success of Welcome to Wrexham.
Australia has emerged as the documentary’s third biggest market, behind only the United States and the United Kingdom.
Speaking to Rolling Stone earlier this year, McElhenney hinted at plans for an international tour.
‘Maybe we go on an international tour with a certain club to a certain continent?’ he teased.
‘There is a lot of love for Wrexham. Who knows? Maybe we might bring the club to you instead of the other way around.’
It now appears those hints are becoming reality, with 9News Melbourne’s Tom Morris reporting that a match between Wrexham and Melbourne Victory is ‘highly likely’ to happen in July at Marvel Stadium.
‘Wrexham, the club made famous by Ryan Reynolds, is highly likely to be playing a game in July against Melbourne Victory at Marvel Stadium,’ Morris said.
Wrexham are currently in the third tier of English football but have lofty Premier League ambitions for the future
The match would be held in Melbourne with A-League side Melbourne Victory to take on the tourists
‘It’s an amazing coup for Visit Victoria. If they can get it done, and I expect they will, this is almost certainly happening.’
The proposed clash promises to be a major event for Australian football, pitting one of the A-League’s most successful clubs against one of football’s most famous underdogs.
Melbourne Victory, four-time A-League champions, are currently fourth on the ladder and remain one of the most widely supported clubs in the country.
Fan reaction online has been enthusiastic.
One supporter wrote, ‘Call me crazy but I’m more excited for this than an all-stars game or Prem team matchup… gives a better insight into the level of our league.’
Another added, ‘Bring on the Deadpool and Rob McElhenney,’ referring to Reynolds’ iconic superhero role.
‘Never been a fan of exhibition games, but ultimately they’re meant to be money makers and we really need the money,’ posted another.
