Rob McElhenney’s latest comments on former Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale go against one thing he promised Wrexham supporters.
Wrexham are readying for a busy summer of transfer business as Phil Parkinson aims to strengthen his squad.
The Reds have already seen their advances for Wigan centre-back Jason Kerr get rejected, with the 27-year-old signing a new contract, while Conor Hourihane snubbed Wrexham despite receiving a ‘big offer’.
Hollywood co-owner Rob McElhenney has added fuel to the fire in this window by exploring the possibility of signing Wales legend Gareth Bale, who announced his retirement from professional football in January 2023.
McElhenney recently said he’d that an offer to Bale is on the table but the 34-year-old quashed those rumours last year by stating he’s quite happy where he is and isn’t interested in returning to football.
Rob McElhenney’s comments go against Wrexham promise
Well, as much as Wrexham fans would love to see the Wales all-time goalscorer and multiple Champions League winner pull on the jersey, McElhenney’s comments do go against a promise he made.
From the minute he arrived through the door with Ryan Reynolds, the duo wanted to be taken seriously as many had their reservations about the Hollywood superstars.
They’ve shown they’re serious by the progress they’ve made on and off the pitch, with signings such as James McClean and Steven Fletcher demonstrating they’re savvy in the market.
Unfortunately, bringing someone out of retirement who hasn’t played for almost two years would be the opposite of that.
Bale retired in January 2023 following a brief spell at Major League Soccer side LA FC where he made just 14 appearances, scoring three times.
McElhenney has perhaps seen he’s played in his native country and is the best Welsh player of all time, so it’s clear why he wants him to join however, it isn’t logistical at all and would show they aren’t serious.
Wrexham need to be looking at players who are the opposite of Bale
In his prime, Bale was undoubtedly one of the best players on the planet but during his time at Real, his appetite for the game waned and ultimately led to an early retirement.
The 34-year-old no longer has the hunger or desire for the sport, preferring to spend more time playing golf or with his family.
Wrexham must target players in the window who are at the opposite end of the spectrum; young and hungry with a desire to win.
Brighton’s Marc Leonard is the perfect example of a player the Reds are targeting as the 22-year-old was excellent in League One last term and has incredible potential.
Loughgall striker Benji Magee, aged 21, is another example of a player currently on Wrexham’s radar who has huge potential.
These are the serious signings that McElhenney and Reynolds need to be making instead of chasing unrealistic deals for players like Bale.