Wrexham Could Qualify For Europe Due To 'Loophole' In Move That Could 'Wreak Havoc' In English Football
What's the story?
Wrexham, a non-league club currently playing in the National League, could qualify for Europe next season due to a loophole in the rules. The Welsh club, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, is currently top of the National League and on course for promotion to League Two.
If Wrexham wins the FA Trophy, which is open to all clubs outside the Premier League and EFL, they would qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League because Wales has a guaranteed place in the competition.
Why is this a loophole?
The loophole exists because Wrexham is a Welsh club playing in the English football league system. UEFA rules state that only clubs from the top division of their country can qualify for European competition.
However, Wales has a special dispensation from UEFA that allows its clubs to qualify for European competition even if they are not in the top division.
What could this mean for English football?
If Wrexham does qualify for Europe, it could have a significant impact on English football.
It would be the first time that a non-league club has qualified for European competition since 1992 when Hereford United reached the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.
It could also lead to other non-league clubs trying to emulate Wrexham's success, which could lead to a decrease in the quality of the English football pyramid.
What's the reaction been?
The reaction to Wrexham's potential qualification for Europe has been mixed.
Some have welcomed the move, saying it would be a great story for the club and for non-league football.
Others have expressed concerns about the impact it could have on English football, arguing that it could lead to a decrease in the quality of the pyramid.
What's next?
Wrexham will need to win the FA Trophy to qualify for Europe. They will face Chesterfield in the semi-final on April 23rd.
If they win the FA Trophy, they will face a team from one of the top divisions in Europe in the UEFA Europa Conference League.