**Ryan Reynolds Pays Tribute as Paul Mullin Departs Wrexham for Wigan Loan**
Wrexham AFC faces a new chapter as beloved striker Paul Mullin prepares to don the Wigan Athletic kit for the 2025/26 season, heading there on loan. The departure of Mullin, who has been instrumental in Wrexham’s resurgence, has inspired an emotional response from co-owner and Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds, highlighting the deep bond formed between the footballer and the club’s high-profile ownership.
Mullin’s journey with the North Wales club began nearly four years ago when he arrived from Cambridge United. Since his arrival, the Liverpudlian frontman has made a striking impact, notching an impressive tally of 110 goals in 172 appearances. His efforts helped propel Wrexham from the depths of non-league football towards the bright lights of the EFL Championship, making him an iconic figure amongst the club’s devoted supporters.
Nicknamed ‘Super Paul Mullin’, the 30-year-old’s heroics on the pitch were key in winning him both the adulation of fans and the attention of Reynolds and his fellow co-owner Rob McElhenney. Their relationship extended outside of football, with Mullin earning a quirky cameo as ‘Welshpool’—a nod to his roots and favourite superhero—in last year’s ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ film.
Nevertheless, the most recent season has been far from straightforward for Mullin. Having undergone surgery to address a persistent back problem last summer, his involvement in first-team action was noticeably curtailed. He started just nine league matches, supplementing this with 17 substitute appearances. Despite these challenges, the team, under Phil Parkinson’s stewardship, accomplished a historic third consecutive promotion.
The switch to Wigan Athletic is viewed as an opportunity for the striker to reclaim regular minutes on the pitch, something seemingly out of reach at Wrexham amidst their Championship adventure. Reynolds reflected on the emotional adjustment, acknowledging on social media: “I can’t imagine seeing Mulls on loan and in another kit. We wouldn’t be where we are without his heart, skill and work ethic. We love you, @PMullin7. SPM [Super Paul Mullin].”
For his own part, Mullin expressed enthusiasm for his next footballing chapter, telling Wigan’s media team: “I’m excited for the next part of my story. The manager has explained his vision for the year, and I’m ready to work hard and help make it a memorable season. My commitment to every club I represent is total, both in effort and in scoring goals, and Wigan will get everything I’ve got.”
Phil Parkinson, Wrexham’s manager, also voiced his support for the move, suggesting that regular first-team outings would aid Mullin’s return to top form. “It’s a good opportunity for him to get back to playing regular first-team football and I’m sure he’s going to be a great signing for Wigan Athletic,” he remarked.
The loan move, however, follows reports of a strained relationship between Mullin and Parkinson, something the striker recently clarified while guesting on an episode of ‘Welcome to Wrexham.’ Mullin admitted to feeling frustrated after being sidelined and acknowledged his struggle managing those emotions. He described carrying resentment after losing his place in the side and, despite accepting the situation in the end, conceded he had yet to pinpoint what had prompted Parkinson’s diminished trust in him.
Mullin’s honest reflections reveal the human side of football, where the emotional toll of being left out can affect even a club legend. His comments offer a poignant insight into the sometimes precarious balance between individual ambition and the team’s wider objectives, especially at a club experiencing rapid success and change.
As Wrexham look ahead to their first EFL Championship campaign in decades and Wigan welcome Mullin’s experience and goal-scoring pedigree, all eyes will be on how this story continues to unfold. For supporters, the strong bonds forged off the pitch between player, owners, and fans serve as a reminder that football is as much about community as it is about results on the field.
The long-term impact of Mullin’s move—both at Wrexham and with his new side—remains yet to be seen, but one thing is certain: his contribution to the club’s modern history will be remembered as nothing short of transformative.