Paul Mullin Closing In on Wrexham Exit After Ryan Reynolds Warning and ‘Resentment’ Claim
WREXHAM, WALES — June 22, 2025 — In what could mark the end of a historic chapter in Wrexham AFC’s remarkable rise through the English football tiers, Paul Mullin, the talismanic striker and club icon, is reportedly closing in on a sensational exit from the club. The shocking development follows claims of “resentment” within the camp and an alleged private warning issued by club co-owner Ryan Reynolds.
The news has stunned Wrexham supporters across the globe, many of whom have come to see Mullin as the face of the club’s modern-day revolution. Since joining Wrexham in 2021 from Cambridge United, Mullin has been at the heart of the Red Dragons’ transformation, leading from the front both on and off the pitch. But now, with the 2025–26 season looming, signs suggest that the fairytale partnership may be reaching its dramatic conclusion.
From Hero to Headlines: Mullin’s Impact on Wrexham
Paul Mullin’s arrival at Wrexham in the summer of 2021 was widely considered a major coup for a National League side. At the time, Mullin had just claimed the League Two Golden Boot with Cambridge United and was tipped for a step up, not down. However, in a move that stunned football pundits and thrilled Wrexham fans, he opted to sign for the Welsh side under new ownership by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Mullin wasted no time becoming a fan favourite. His relentless work ethic, clinical finishing, and down-to-earth demeanor endeared him to the Racecourse Ground faithful. Across four seasons, he scored more than 100 goals, helping Wrexham achieve back-to-back promotions from the National League to League One and turning the club into a global brand.
Documentaries like Welcome to Wrexham, streaming on platforms like Disney+ and FX, catapulted both Mullin and the club to international fame. Yet, it appears the limelight may have come at a cost.
A Rift Beneath the Surface?
Recent reports from sources close to the club suggest that all may not be well behind the scenes. A string of cryptic social media posts, a noted change in Mullin’s on-field demeanor, and his omission from a recent pre-season promotional video sparked speculation earlier this month. Now, those rumours have gained traction following claims that Ryan Reynolds issued a “private warning” to the player during a heated meeting last month.
While details of the alleged conversation remain unconfirmed, insiders suggest that Reynolds expressed concern over “a growing sense of entitlement and distraction from core team values.” The tone of the conversation reportedly left Mullin “shocked” and “offended,” leading to a cooling of relations between the star striker and Wrexham’s hierarchy.
A source familiar with the situation told the Wrexham Mail:
“It’s not just about goals anymore. There’s a bigger picture at Wrexham now — branding, values, unity. Mullin has been pivotal, no doubt. But recently, there’s been friction about his role in the team and his influence in the locker room.”
The ‘Resentment’ Factor
Fueling the fire further are growing claims of internal resentment among some players who feel that Mullin has received preferential treatment in recent seasons — from media appearances to contract incentives and travel privileges.
An anonymous squad member was quoted in the Daily Footy Times stating:
“Paul’s a legend here, no one doubts that. But there’s a feeling he’s sometimes playing a different game. Some of us think there’s been too much focus on one person. Football’s a team sport. That imbalance is hard to live with, especially when results don’t always match the hype.”
These claims were echoed by another unnamed staff member who admitted that while Mullin’s professionalism is generally praised, the locker room atmosphere has been “unsettled” in recent months.
Wrexham’s Changing Identity
As Wrexham continues to evolve into a professional and global football operation, tensions are bound to arise. The club, now competing in League One, has undergone a dramatic transformation from its non-league roots. From international tours in the United States to multi-million dollar sponsorship deals, the club is no longer a quaint story — it’s a commercial entity with lofty ambitions.
New signings, higher wages, increased expectations, and an influx of international attention have put Wrexham under a microscope. Sources claim that Reynolds and McElhenney are now eager to align the club’s future with a more modern, team-focused ethos, rather than revolving the brand around a single player.
In a recent interview, co-owner Rob McElhenney subtly hinted at upcoming changes, saying:
“We love what Paul has brought to this club. But football moves quickly. The Wrexham story is bigger than any one individual. We’re constantly evaluating how to build sustainably — as a squad, as a culture.”
Transfer Interest and Potential Destinations
Amid the mounting speculation, reports suggest that several clubs — both in the UK and abroad — have begun inquiring about Mullin’s availability. Among those reportedly interested are Wigan Athletic, who are rebuilding under new ownership, and MLS side LA Galaxy, who are seeking a marquee forward.
There is also said to be interest from Saudi Arabian second-tier clubs, where lucrative contracts are often offered to players with significant media appeal. Mullin, thanks to the Welcome to Wrexham series, now enjoys name recognition far beyond his League One status.
Football journalist Oliver Kay tweeted:
“Hearing rumblings that Paul Mullin has already spoken with two overseas clubs. Wrexham may consider letting him go for the right fee. A legacy move, but also a necessary evolution.”
Fan Reaction
Fans have responded with mixed emotions. On one hand, there’s overwhelming respect and appreciation for what Mullin has done at the club. On the other, there’s recognition that football is a constantly shifting landscape.
Longtime supporter Emma Roberts wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Paul gave us everything — memories, goals, belief. If this is goodbye, I just hope it’s done with class and clarity.”
However, others have expressed dismay at the idea of the club moving on from its most iconic player so soon after achieving consecutive promotions.
What Comes Next?
No official statement has been issued by Wrexham AFC or Paul Mullin regarding the reports, but club insiders suggest that a formal update may come as early as next week. Whether that will be confirmation of an exit, a denial of the rumours, or news of a contract renegotiation remains to be seen.
Still, few can deny that the writing appears to be on the wall. If this is indeed the end of the Paul Mullin era at Wrexham, it will mark the close of one of the most romantic chapters in modern football — one that combined old-school grit with new-age glamour.
What happens next may shape not only Wrexham’s trajectory in League One but also its identity as a club navigating the intersection of sport, celebrity, and ambition.
Summary:
- Paul Mullin is reportedly closing in on a Wrexham exit.
- Alleged “resentment” among teammates and a private warning from Ryan Reynolds have escalated the situation.
- Interest from other clubs, including Wigan and teams in the MLS and Saudi Arabia, is mounting.
- Wrexham owners are believed to be realigning the club’s vision for the future.
- Fans are divided, but all acknowledge Mullin’s legendary contribution to the club.
Whether Mullin stays or goes, his name is etched in Wrexham’s modern history. But the club, it seems, is already preparing for its next chapter.
