AFC Wrexham co-chairman Ryan Reynolds showed his class as he sent a message of luck and encouragement to Wales as the Red Dragons ahead of their FIFA World Cup campaign in Qatar.
Back in November 2020, the Deadpool actor joined forces with Rob McElhenney - famed for creating and starring in ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ - purchased Wrexham AFC amid plenty of fanfare. This past year, a documentary was released on their journey entitled 'Welcome to Wrexham' - which has since been rebooted for a second season.
Reynolds and McElhenney purchased Wrexham for $2.76million (£2.32m) and deserve credit for their efforts to ingratiate themselves within the local community. The duo have become symbols of Welsh football around the world with the publicity they have bought to the club and the area.
The acting stars have now sent a message of encouragement to Wales as they contest the World Cup finals for the first time since 1958. While Reynolds - a Canadian - wants Wales to conquer Group B, McElhenney hoped for a draw between the country and the United States.
“Hey there, this is Ryan Reynolds,” Reynolds said in the video. “I just wanted to send all my best wishes to the entire Welsh football club on their way to Qatar to compete in the World Cup.
“I’m actually sitting here right now with my best friend and my co-pilot at Wrexham AFC, Mr Rob McElhenney.”
McElhenney got involved and : “Hey, how’s it going? Just want to say good luck - not too much luck, I mean maybe a draw. A draw would be nice. Play your hearts out.”
Reynolds then panned the camera away from the It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia star, adding: “I’m so sorry about him. Crush all of your enemies. Drink the blood of your enemies. Rob and I are actually in the car right now because we’re driving to Qatar.”
McElhenney laughed and joined in the joke, saying: “We’re on our way to Qatar. Play your hearts out boys. Not too hard though. Not too hard.” Reynolds stared down the lens and pledged his support for Wales. He concluded with: “Go get them. Too hard.”
It was a touching gesture, but several fans noticed the error after Reynolds mistakenly said 'Welsh football club'. Perhaps he has spent too much time setting up Wrexham for success behind the scenes.
Wales drew 1-1 with the USMNT as a late Gareth Bale penalty cancelled out Timothy Weah’s opener to grant McElhenney the result he wanted. Both teams are in action on Friday, with Wales facing Iran before the United States play group-leading England.
