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Manchester United Legend and Rival Coach Reveals He Used to “Cheer Wrexham On,” Ahead of Facing Ryan Reynolds’ Side in Carabao Cup

Published 08/10/2023, 2:37 PM EDT

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The popularity of Wrexham AFC has seen a massive surge in the past few years. But the third-oldest soccer club has a fanbase that dates back a long way. There are some renowned names who have been ardent supporters of the Welsh club. Among them was, surprisingly, a Manchester United legend.

The ex-soccer star revealed that he cheered for the Red Dragons. In fact, coincidentally, the legendary United player is also the coach of Wrexham’s rivals, whom they are going to face later this month in the Carabao Cup.

Manchester United legend and rival coach used to cheer for Wrexham

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Wrexham recently qualified for the next round of the EFL Carabao Cup after winning the first round against Wigan Athletic. Likewise, for the next round, they’ll be facing Premier League side Brentford. Surprisingly, their next Carabao Cup rival’s coach, Mark Hughes, used to support the Red Dragons.

The former Manchester United star grew up in a village that was just six miles away from Wrexham’s ground. He spent his childhood watching the Red’s matches from the now-demolished Kop terrace. Hughes etched his name into Wrexham and Welsh soccer history in 1985 after scoring a stunning volley in a World Cup qualifier against Spain.

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Now, the manager will be returning to the Racecourse Ground with some fond memories. While speaking to the Independent about his goal, he said, “I used to stand on that terrace as a young lad and cheer Wrexham on, so to do it in front of the Wrexham Kop was a special moment for me.”

Indeed, it would be a special and nostalgic visit to the Racecourse for the Welsh manager. Certainly, the Wrexham fans will greet him with a warm reception. But that wouldn’t distract the Welsh side to clinch a victory against the Premier League side.

Red Dragons to rally for another Carabao Cup win

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Wrexham kicked off their Carabao Cup journey after defeating Wigan Athletic in the opening round of the tournament. Both sides failed to score a single goal, which eventually led each side to decide the game on penalties. It was a lucky day for Ryan Reynolds’ side, as they managed to beat the League One side 4-2 on penalties.

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Now for the second round, they’ll be facing Brentford on August 29. Certainly, the Dragons would be looking to win this one. However, the match would definitely present them with a lot of hurdles. The Premier League side remains a stronger side, given the division they are contesting in. However, Wrexham might be looking to turn the odds in their favor. Just like they did against the team that was one division above them.

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Written by:

Abhishek Mishra

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Abhishek Mishra is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. Abhishek's love for soccer began during his childhood days when he spent most of his time playing and watching the sport. His early exposure to soccer earned him many accolades at district and zonal levels, making him a true sports enthusiast.
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Edited by:

Anuj Jacob