**BBC NEWS: Wrexham AFC Owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney Make Shrewd Move to Appoint Aston Villa Legend Gareth Barry as Assistant Head Coach**
In a bold and strategic move, **Wrexham AFC owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney** have officially appointed **Aston Villa and England legend Gareth Barry** as the club’s new **Assistant Head Coach**, signaling their unwavering commitment to raising the club’s standards both on and off the pitch.
The decision to bring Barry on board was reportedly driven by a combination of his vast Premier League experience, his tactical understanding of the game, and his reputation as a calm, intelligent leader on the field. Barry, who earned over **600 Premier League appearances** across his career with clubs like Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Everton, is regarded as one of English football’s most consistent and respected professionals.
> “We believe Gareth Barry brings a level of expertise and character that will help elevate Wrexham AFC to the next level,” said Ryan Reynolds in a club statement. “His football IQ is off the charts, and his humility and work ethic fit the culture we’ve been building here.”
The appointment comes as Wrexham prepare for the challenges of a higher division, following back-to-back promotions and rising expectations. Barry’s presence in the technical area is seen as a complement to current manager **Phil Parkinson**, offering a fresh perspective and deep insight into top-level football.
> “I’m honored and excited to be part of this journey,” Barry said after signing the deal. “Wrexham is a club full of passion, energy, and ambition. I’ve followed the story closely and watched what Ryan, Rob, and Phil have been building. I’m ready to contribute to something truly special.”
According to sources close to the club, Barry was personally contacted by Reynolds and McElhenney, who pitched the role to him in a video call that emphasized not just the club’s footballing ambitions, but also its community-driven values and long-term vision. That conversation was said to be a turning point in Barry’s decision to leave his previous role as a youth development advisor to take on a more hands-on coaching position.
Wrexham fans have largely welcomed the news with excitement, seeing Barry’s addition as another sign that the club’s Hollywood owners are serious about establishing Wrexham as a mainstay in the English Football League. Social media erupted with praise and optimism, with fans calling Barry’s appointment a “masterstroke” and a “Premier League mindset for a rising club.”
Head Coach Phil Parkinson also spoke glowingly about his new assistant:
> “Gareth has been there and done it all in English football. His insight will be invaluable not just to our players, but to our entire coaching staff. We’re thrilled to have him.”
As the new season approaches, Gareth Barry’s arrival marks a significant step in Wrexham’s evolution—from a historic club on the rise to a serious competitor with Premier League-grade pedigree on the sideline. With Barry alongside Parkinson and backed by the passion of Reynolds and McElhenney, Wrexham AFC’s ambitions look more realistic than ever.
