Phoenix CEO Hails Exciting Opportunity to Face Global Sensation in Pre-Season: ‘It Would Be Incredible’

Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano has expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of taking on newly-promoted Wrexham AFC in a pre-season match in the New Zealand capital.

The Welsh club, well-known for its ownership by Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, has just achieved its third consecutive promotion and will participate in the EFL Championship next season—just a step below the Premier League.

As discussions about a tour to Australia for the Red Dragons intensify, with fixtures against Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC anticipated to be announced soon, there are also reports suggesting that New Zealand could be on the itinerary for Wrexham’s pre-season engagements.

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“Absolutely, if it materialises, it would be fantastic,” said Wellington’s Italiano when asked about the potential clash with Wrexham at his pre-match press conference ahead of this weekend’s face-off against Perth Glory.

“It’d be an excellent opportunity to gauge their calibre. I know they’re a significant club with lofty aspirations, and they’ve cultivated a passionate following, so it would be great if we could make it happen.”

Italiano continued, “Any international opponent that draws a crowd is beneficial. It would be nice for the fans to come out. Let’s hope for pleasant weather, and we’ll see how it unfolds.”

However, Wellington’s immediate focus lies on Friday night’s Distance Derby against Perth Glory at Sky Stadium.

This match not only marks the conclusion of the season for the club but also serves as a farewell for defensive pair Scott Wootton and Sam Sutton, both set to join Perth following the expiry of their contracts with the Phoenix.

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“I’ll put out the strongest team available for tomorrow,” Italiano stated when queried about fielding the two players nearing their departures.

“Where they head next season is not my concern, and it won’t influence my selections.”

“It’ll be their final game at home as Phoenix players, and I want them to receive a fitting send-off.”

He added, “I feel disappointed whenever a player departs. But in football, change is inevitable; players and coaches come and go. It’s a standard part of the business.”

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With a confirmed finish in the bottom four of this season’s Isuzu UTE A-League, the Nix will participate in the Australia Cup playoffs in Darwin in two weeks, where they could face Perth once more.

Currently sitting in 11th position on the table, the Phoenix are aware that if they can surpass the results of 10th-placed Central Coast Mariners in the final round, they will face Perth again in Darwin; otherwise, they’ll encounter Brisbane Roar for a place in the Australia Cup Round of 32.