Wrexham's pre-season tour of the United States has captured the imagination of football fans worldwide, and the club's first season in the Championship is shaping up with genuine ambition behind it. A 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Yankee Stadium on July 29 was the only blemish on an otherwise impressive summer schedule, with Phil Parkinson's side having beaten Manchester United 1-0 in Helsinki and Leeds United 3-2 in New York in the weeks prior. Those results against top-flight opposition have sent a clear message about the Red Dragons' intent.

Co-owner Ryan Reynolds called the Yankee Stadium occasion a "punch me moment," and the sentiment reflects just how far this club has travelled. Wrexham now sit 23rd in the Championship standings at the start of a new campaign, preparing to compete in England's second tier for the first time in decades.

Off the pitch, the club are building serious infrastructure to match their on-field ambitions. Wrexham are closing in on the appointment of Newcastle United's Steve Nickson as sporting director, a structural move that signals a clear step toward professionalising their recruitment operation as they target the Premier League.

A friendly against Sunderland on August 2 offers another chance to sharpen fitness before the competitive season begins. With strong pre-season form, a high-profile tour, and significant off-field investment, Wrexham are entering the Championship in confident shape.