Wrexham star striker Paul Mullin is set to miss the start of the new season after undergoing “minor spinal surgery.” Mullin will also miss Wrexham’s summer tour to the U.S. and Canada, where the Welsh club, owned by Hollywood actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, is scheduled to play Bournemouth, Chelsea, and the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Wrexham announced on Wednesday that the 29-year-old Mullin had surgery in London in mid-June to address a long-term lower-back and hamstring issue. Mullin has been a prolific scorer for Wrexham, netting over 100 goals in three seasons. His contributions were pivotal in Wrexham’s promotion to English soccer’s third division in April, marking back-to-back promotions for the team since the Hollywood duo’s investment brought the club into the spotlight. Wrexham is now just two tiers away from the Premier League.
“The club’s three-time, back-to-back top scorer and player of the season has managed the injury through conservative treatment following three years of concern,” Wrexham said in a statement. “However, during off-season training, it became evident that this approach would not be able to continue and, following several consultations, it was determined that surgery would be the best way forward.”
The club emphasized that the surgery was performed “to ensure he is fit for the majority of the 2024-25 campaign.” Wrexham is set to start its league season on August 10 when it hosts Wycombe Wanderers.
Wrexham has gained international attention, not just for its on-field success but also as the subject of the globally streamed documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham.” The series has brought the club’s journey and the impact of its Hollywood owners to a worldwide audience.
Mullin’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team, given his remarkable goal-scoring record and influence on the pitch. However, the club and its fans will be hopeful that the surgery will allow him to return stronger and continue his impressive form in the long term.
The decision to opt for surgery came after it became clear that conservative treatments were no longer sufficient. The club’s medical team, along with external consultants, concluded that surgery was the best course of action to ensure Mullin’s long-term fitness and performance.
Wrexham’s summer tour to the U.S. and Canada was highly anticipated, not just for the competitive matches but also for the opportunity to expand the club’s international fan base. The absence of their star striker will be a setback, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark.
The club’s management and coaching staff will be working hard to ensure that the team remains competitive in Mullin’s absence. The focus will be on maintaining the momentum gained from their recent promotions and continuing to build on the success that has brought them so close to the Premier League.
As the new season approaches, Wrexham fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Mullin’s recovery and looking forward to seeing him back in action. His return will be a significant boost for the team as they aim to achieve their ambitious goals.
In the meantime, the club will continue to prepare for the upcoming season, with the hope that Mullin’s surgery will prove to be a turning point in his career, allowing him to overcome his long-standing injury issues and continue to be a key player for Wrexham.
The journey of Wrexham, from a lower-division team to a club on the brink of the Premier League, has been nothing short of remarkable. The investment and involvement of McElhenney and Reynolds have brought a new level of excitement and attention to the club, and the story of Paul Mullin’s recovery and return will be another chapter in this ongoing saga.
As the new season kicks off, all eyes will be on Wrexham to see how they fare without their star striker and how quickly Mullin can return to the pitch. The club’s fans, both old and new, will be cheering them on every step of the way.
Source: AP News
