Former Wigan Athletic striker Stephen Humphrys has opened up about his choice to decline Wrexham’s Hollywood-backed project, despite the club’s ambitious vision and attractive financial package. The striker’s decision, which eventually led him to Barnsley, provides an intriguing insight into the personal considerations that influence players’ careers beyond the allure of high-profile projects.
Speaking to Wigan Today, Humphrys disclosed that Wrexham, under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, had made multiple attempts to secure his services. The Welsh club, known for their remarkable rise and Hollywood connection, first approached in January before returning with a concrete offer in May. Despite the club’s ability to offer competitive wages and the promise of being part of an exciting long-term project, Humphrys’ loyalty to Wigan initially held firm.
The striker’s commitment to Wigan was particularly noteworthy given the context of Wrexham’s recent recruitment success. The Welsh club has demonstrated their pulling power by attracting high-caliber players like Ben Foster, Jack Marriott, and Jon Dadi Bodvarsson – all of whom chose to join the club despite having opportunities at higher levels. This track record makes Humphrys’ decision to decline their advances all the more significant.
In his candid discussion about the decision-making process, Humphrys revealed that money wasn’t the primary motivator in his choice. At the time, Wrexham had come in for me, who were paying really good wages... and I still didn’t want to leave Wigan for Wrexham,” he explained. The striker even turned down an attractive offer from a European club, demonstrating his commitment to finding a resolution at Wigan.
However, the situation at Wigan took an unexpected turn when no further contract offers materialized, despite Humphrys’ willingness to stay for less money than what other clubs were offering. My position was always: ‘This is where I’m at, I’m turning down more money than I’ve been offered elsewhere, I’m more than happy to stay here for less money – not less than what I was on, but less than other clubs are offering’… because I wanted to stay,” he reflected.
The aftermath of these decisions has seen both parties forge different paths in League One. Wrexham has continued their impressive trajectory under their Hollywood ownership, currently sitting third in the league table, just four points behind leaders Wycombe Wanderers. Their success suggests that while Humphrys might have been an valuable addition to their squad, they’ve managed to build a formidable team capable of competing at the higher level.
Meanwhile, Humphrys has found his feet at Barnsley, contributing four goals in 13 appearances as his new club sits fifth in the league, well-positioned for a promotion push through the play-offs. His performance suggests that while the Wrexham project might have offered a unique opportunity, his decision to pursue a different path hasn’t hindered his career progression.
The story of Humphrys’ decision provides a fascinating counterpoint to the narrative of Wrexham’s irresistible rise under their celebrity owners. While the club has successfully attracted numerous high-profile players, his case demonstrates that even the most ambitious projects with substantial financial backing don’t always align with players’ personal and professional priorities.
As Wrexham continues their push for promotion, maintaining their position as genuine contenders in League One, the tale of Humphrys’ declined opportunity adds an intriguing layer to their ongoing story. It serves as a reminder that in football, decisions are often driven by complex personal considerations that transcend the apparent glamour and financial benefits of high-profile projects.
With both Wrexham and Humphrys finding success in their respective situations, this story ultimately underscores how football careers can flourish through different paths, even when saying no to seemingly golden opportunities. As the season progresses, both parties will likely continue to demonstrate that sometimes the roads not taken can lead to equally satisfying destinations.
