Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney outline their ambition as Wrexham achieve crucial milestone for long-term future

The Welsh club has been granted Category Three academy status, a milestone that reflects their commitment to youth development and the future of the club. After being given additional time to meet the necessary standards, Wrexham successfully upgraded their academy facilities to meet Category Three criteria. This upgrade represents a significant boost for the club, allowing them to field teams across all age groups, from Under-9s to Under-23s, for the 2024-25 season. Previously, under Category Four, the club was limited to operating only at the Under-17s level and above.

Wrexham are dedicated to setting up a robust youth development system and have already committed to a multi-million-pound infrastructure project that would see them raise a new training facility at Darland High School in Rossett. This state-of-the-art facility will feature five pitches of varying sizes, along with essential amenities such as changing rooms, toilets, offices, analysis rooms, and a classroom to fulfill the necessary requirements for Category Three status.

Wrexham’s chief executive, Michael Williamson, said, via The Athletic: “The co-chairmen have outlined their ambition to create a sustainable football club, and the investment in the academy training facilities along with the Category Three achievement is certainly a key milestone towards that objective.”

Wrexham have been granted a provisional licence for an initial 12-month period. This temporary status allows the club to implement and utilise their new facilities while continuing to meet the required standards. Following this period, a comprehensive assessment will be conducted to ensure all criteria are met. If successful, Wrexham can expect to secure a three-year licence, solidifying their status and commitment to youth development.

The path to achieving Category Three status involved a rigorous four-day inspection by the Professional Game Academy Audit Company (PGAAC) during the spring. This inspection identified the necessary upgrades and improvements required to meet the stringent criteria. The club’s swift response and commitment to these improvements have been instrumental in securing the provisional licence.

The club’s return to the English Football League (EFL) in 2023 marked a new chapter in their storied history. The focus on developing a strong youth setup aligns with their long-term goals of competitiveness and sustainability. The decision to invest heavily in youth facilities highlights their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and creating a pipeline of skilled players for the future.