Revealed: When Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney & Wrexham could get their shot at Europe while ruling themselves out of Champions League contention

It has been suggested that Welsh clubs currently plying their trade in the English Football League may be invited back into domestic knockout competition across the country that they call home. Wrexham, Cardiff City, Swansea City and Newport County all turn out in the EFL at present.

• Getty

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  If those sides were to form part of proposals – which would need a green light from the Football Associations of England and Wales as well as UEFA – then a path that leads towards Conference League qualification would open up.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    According to The Athletic, those pushing for change would like to see a “go-ahead before the end of this calendar year”, which would see Wrexham and Co enter the Welsh League Cup next season and possibly earn tickets to the Conference League party for 2026-27.

  • Getty Images

    TELL ME MORE

    A more likely outcome is that the new League Cup format will slot in alongside a major relaunch of the Cymru Premier in 2026-27. Said proposal would give those involved more time in which to secure the European qualification spot that is currently not on offer in the Welsh League Cup.

    WHAT NEXT?

    If Wrexham were to agree to join the Welsh League Cup, then they would have to sacrifice qualification for Europe through the English League Cup, FA Cup and Premier League placings. Hollywood co-owners Reynolds and McElhenney intend to reach the top-flight, but they would not be able to challenge for Champions League spots if getting there – unless they withdrew from Welsh tournaments again – as UEFA prevents teams from having two routes into continental competition through different national associations.