Wrexham Soccer Team's Journey to Global Sensation and Their LA Adventure

 Wrexham Soccer Team's Journey to Global Sensation and Their LA Adventure

Wrexham Soccer Team's Journey(Image-Getty)

After Hollywood arrived in Wrexham and transformed the struggling Welsh soccer team into an international sensation through a hugely popular docuseries, the team reciprocated the gesture with a visit to Los Angeles last Saturday.

Wearing their signature red Wrexham shirts, fans significantly outnumbered the supporters of the MLS reserve team LA Galaxy II during the friendly match in Carson. The visitors emerged victorious with a 4-0 score, marking the second game of their four-match 'USA Invasion' tour.

Witnessing the spectacle from the sidelines was Wayne Jones, the owner of The Turf pub, who gained fame through the series "Welcome to Wrexham." The show documents the takeover of the club by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney since November 2020.

Speaking with Reuters at halftime, Jones expressed his excitement about being in Los Angeles, a vast city vastly different from what they were used to. He highlighted the incredible journey of the Welsh team, who achieved a Hollywood-like ending when they were promoted to the English Football League in April after a 15-year absence. Jones described their progress as "light years" ahead of where they were just three years ago.

Despite the newfound fame and attention, Jones humbly rejected the idea of being a celebrity, emphasizing that he sees himself as a down-to-earth, working-class individual who runs a bar. He stated that their primary focus is on the community and the football club, and as long as both continue to thrive, they will embrace their current success.

On a warm Southern California evening, fans enjoyed Wrexham-themed drinks at a replica of The Turf pub. Even though Jones was continuously approached by fans for photos, he remained grounded and focused on the team and the community.

The "USA Invasion" tour continues, with Wrexham set to face Manchester United in San Diego on Tuesday before concluding their trip with a match against Bethlehem Steel in Chester, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Fans in the United States can look forward to season two of "Welcome to Wrexham," which will begin streaming on September 12th.