The takeover of Wrexham AFC by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has been nothing short of a cinematic experience. Their investment injected not just capital but also a global spotlight onto the historic Welsh club. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and one of their early significant decisions involved parting ways with then-manager Dean Keates.
Keates, a former Wrexham player himself, had returned to manage the club for a second spell in 2019. While he was a familiar face and a steady hand, the new ownership had a different vision for the club’s future – one that ultimately didn’t align with Keates’ approach. This article delves into the reasons behind Keates’ dismissal, exploring the context, the aftermath, and what became of the former Wrexham boss.
The End of an Era: Dean Keates’ Departure
Dean Keates’ second stint as Wrexham manager was marked by challenges and, ultimately, a divergence in vision with the club’s new owners. Let’s examine the factors that contributed to his departure.
Performance and League Position
While Keates stabilized the team, Wrexham’s league position remained a concern. The club consistently fell short of promotion to the English Football League (EFL) during his tenure. Reynolds and McElhenney, with their ambitious goals, sought a manager who could deliver tangible results and lead the team to new heights. The pressure to achieve promotion was immense, and the owners felt a change was necessary to realize their aspirations.
The financial investment made by the new owners also raised expectations. With increased resources available, the club was expected to compete at the top end of the National League and secure promotion. When this didn’t happen, Keates’ position became increasingly precarious.
Differing Visions for the Future
Beyond on-field performance, Reynolds and McElhenney had a clear vision for Wrexham’s future, both on and off the pitch. This included a modern, progressive approach to football management, player development, and community engagement. While Keates was respected for his traditional values and connection to the club, his vision didn’t entirely align with the owners’ more ambitious and forward-thinking plans.
The new owners wanted to implement a more data-driven approach to player recruitment and tactics, something that may have differed from Keates’ traditional methods. This difference in philosophy ultimately played a significant role in the decision to seek a new manager.
The Announcement and Initial Reactions
The announcement of Keates’ departure was met with mixed reactions from Wrexham fans. Some were disappointed to see a club legend leave, while others understood the owners’ desire to bring in a manager who could better execute their vision. The decision was undoubtedly a difficult one, but Reynolds and McElhenney believed it was necessary for the long-term success of the club.
The owners publicly thanked Keates for his service to the club, acknowledging his contributions during a challenging period. However, they also made it clear that they were looking for a manager who could take Wrexham to the next level.
The Search for a New Leader: Phil Parkinson’s Arrival
Following Keates’ departure, the search for a new manager began, and the eventual appointment of Phil Parkinson signaled a clear statement of intent from Reynolds and McElhenney.
Parkinson’s Impressive Credentials
Phil Parkinson brought a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to Wrexham. He had previously managed several clubs, including Colchester United, Hull City, Charlton Athletic, Bradford City, and Bolton Wanderers, achieving promotions and cup successes along the way. His appointment was seen as a significant coup for Wrexham, demonstrating the club’s ambition under its new ownership.
Parkinson’s experience in navigating the challenges of lower-league football was particularly appealing to Reynolds and McElhenney. They believed he had the tactical acumen, leadership skills, and player management abilities to guide Wrexham to promotion.
Aligning with the Owners’ Vision
Parkinson’s appointment was also driven by his alignment with Reynolds and McElhenney’s vision for the club. He shared their ambition to transform Wrexham into a successful and sustainable football club, both on and off the pitch. His commitment to developing young players, engaging with the community, and playing attractive football resonated with the owners’ values.
The owners were impressed by Parkinson’s detailed plans for the team, his understanding of the National League, and his passion for the project. They believed he was the right man to lead Wrexham into a new era.
Immediate Impact and Tactical Changes
Parkinson’s arrival brought about immediate changes to Wrexham’s playing style and tactical approach. He implemented a more structured and organized system, focusing on defensive solidity and attacking creativity. He also made key signings to strengthen the squad, bringing in players who could execute his vision on the pitch.
One of Parkinson’s first priorities was to improve Wrexham’s defensive record. He instilled a greater sense of discipline and organization in the team, making them more difficult to break down. He also encouraged the team to play with more attacking flair, utilizing the talents of players like Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer.
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s decision to dismiss Dean Keates was driven by their vision for Wrexham’s future.
Life After Wrexham: Where is Dean Keates Now?
Following his departure from Wrexham, Dean Keates embarked on a new chapter in his managerial career. Let’s take a look at what he’s been up to since leaving the Racecourse Ground.
Return to Management with Walsall
In March 2022, Keates returned to management with Walsall, a club where he had previously played. This appointment provided him with an opportunity to rebuild his reputation and demonstrate his managerial abilities in a new environment. However, his time at Walsall was short-lived, lasting only until the end of the season.
Keates faced a challenging situation at Walsall, with the team struggling to find consistency and form. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to turn things around, and the club decided to part ways with him at the end of the season.
Reflecting on His Time at Wrexham
Keates has spoken candidly about his time at Wrexham, acknowledging the challenges he faced and the disappointment of not achieving promotion. He has also expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support and wished the club well for the future. Despite the circumstances of his departure, Keates remains a popular figure among Wrexham supporters.
He has admitted that the takeover by Reynolds and McElhenney brought a new level of pressure and expectation to the club. While he understood the owners’ ambition, he also felt that it was important to maintain the club’s identity and values.
Future Ambitions and Opportunities
As of late 2024, Dean Keates continues to seek new opportunities in football management. His experience, knowledge of the game, and passion for developing players make him a valuable asset to any club. While his time at Wrexham may have ended prematurely, he remains determined to prove himself as a successful manager.
Keates is reportedly open to various roles within football, including management, coaching, and scouting. He is keen to continue learning and developing his skills, and he is confident that he will find the right opportunity to showcase his talents.
Wrexham’s Trajectory Under Reynolds and McElhenney
Since the arrival of Reynolds and McElhenney, Wrexham has undergone a remarkable transformation, both on and off the pitch. The club’s success story has captured the imagination of football fans around the world.
Promotion to League Two
Under the guidance of Phil Parkinson, Wrexham finally achieved their long-awaited promotion to League Two in the 2022-23 season. This momentous achievement marked the end of a 15-year absence from the EFL and sparked celebrations across the town. The promotion was a testament to the hard work of the players, the coaching staff, and the unwavering support of the fans.
The promotion season was filled with memorable moments, including dramatic late winners, dominant performances, and a record-breaking points total. The team’s success was built on a solid defense, a creative midfield, and a prolific attack led by Paul Mullin.
Continued Investment and Growth
Reynolds and McElhenney have continued to invest heavily in Wrexham, both in terms of player recruitment and infrastructure development. They have also focused on growing the club’s commercial revenue, attracting new sponsors, and expanding its global fanbase. Their commitment to the club’s long-term sustainability is evident in their strategic approach to management.
The owners have also invested in improving the facilities at the Racecourse Ground, including upgrading the pitch, renovating the stands, and enhancing the fan experience. They are committed to creating a world-class stadium that the town can be proud of.
Challenges and Expectations in League Two
Wrexham’s return to League Two has presented new challenges and expectations. The club faces tougher competition, higher standards, and increased scrutiny. However, Reynolds and McElhenney remain confident that the team can compete at this level and continue to progress. Their long-term goal is to reach the Championship and eventually the Premier League, but they recognize that this will require patience, hard work, and continued investment.
The club’s wage bill has increased significantly since the takeover, reflecting the owners’ ambition to build a competitive squad. However, they are also mindful of the need to manage the club’s finances responsibly and ensure its long-term sustainability. Related coverage indicates the wage bill is very high for the league.
Key Takeaways
- Dean Keates was dismissed due to a difference in vision with the new owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
- Phil Parkinson was appointed as the new manager, bringing experience and aligning with the owners’ ambitions.
- Wrexham achieved promotion to League Two under Parkinson’s leadership.
- Reynolds and McElhenney have invested heavily in the club, both on and off the pitch.
- Dean Keates managed Walsall after leaving Wrexham, and is now seeking new opportunities in football.
FAQ
Why was Dean Keates dismissed as Wrexham manager?
Dean Keates was dismissed because his vision for the club’s future did not align with the ambitious plans of the new owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. They sought a manager who could deliver tangible results and lead the team to promotion.
Who replaced Dean Keates as Wrexham manager?
Phil Parkinson replaced Dean Keates as Wrexham manager. Parkinson brought a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the club.
What has Dean Keates done since leaving Wrexham?
After leaving Wrexham, Dean Keates managed Walsall for a short period. He is currently seeking new opportunities in football management.
How have Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney impacted Wrexham?
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have had a significant impact on Wrexham, investing heavily in the club, raising its profile globally, and leading the team to promotion to League Two.
What are Wrexham’s future ambitions under the new ownership?
Wrexham’s future ambitions under Reynolds and McElhenney include continued progress in League Two, further investment in the club’s infrastructure, and a commitment to engaging with the local community.
How much is Wrexham worth now?
Since the takeover by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Wrexham’s value has increased significantly, reflecting the club’s increased profile and commercial success. Estimates place the value very high.
As Chris Moyles said, “I’m so glad it’s happening for Wrexham. I’m so glad it’s happening for the town. It’s a proper fairytale.”
