Wrexham on the Cusp of European Glory?
Imagine it – a packed Racecourse Ground in Wrexham, buzzing with energy as the local heroes take to the pitch to represent Wales in the Europa Conference League. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it could become a reality sooner rather than later.
The FA Cup semi-finalists in 1957, Wrexham are no strangers to big nights under the lights. But with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s takeover in 2021, the Dragons have big plans to get back to the top table of European football. And it seems they’re taking a giant leap in the right direction.
According to reports, Wrexham, Cardiff City, Swansea City, and Newport County are in talks with the Football Association of Wales (FAW) to form a Welsh cup competition that would see them qualify for the Europa Conference League. Yes, you read that right – a Welsh cup competition, separate from the English Football League.
But what’s the catch, you ask? Well, it seems the four Welsh clubs would have to sacrifice their ability to qualify for European competitions via the English pyramid. In other words, they’d have to choose between representing Wales or playing in the Premier League and other English competitions.
[Image: Chelsea line up for a Europa Conference League tie. Image: Getty ]
The idea, dubbed "Prosiect Cymru", aims to drive improvement across the Welsh football ecosystem, with financial gains being re-distributed to benefit grassroots, domestic clubs, and the women’s game. The report claims that this innovative solution would have "transformational potential" for Welsh football, from grassroots to the professional men’s and women’s game.
So, what does this mean for Wrexham and Welsh football fans? It’s a bold move, that’s for sure. But if it means getting the Dragons back to the Europa Conference League, we’re all in. The energy and passion of the Wrexham faithful would undoubtedly make them a force to be reckoned with on the European stage.
It’s an exciting time to be a Wrexham fan, that’s for sure. But what do you think about this bold move? Should the four Welsh clubs take the leap and create a Welsh cup competition, or stick with the status quo? Let us know in the comments!
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