Wrexham officially sign former Manchester United midfielder to 2 year contract

Wrexham AFC have tied down one of the architects of their recent promotion success, announcing that midfielder Ollie Rathbone has put pen to paper on a new contract that will keep him at the Racecourse Ground through the end of the 2027-28 campaign.

Rathbone, 27, arrived in north Wales last August after 128 appearances for Rotherham United, a stint that included promotion to the Championship and EFL Trophy glory. A graduate of the Manchester United academy, the midfielder has quickly become a fan favourite, registering 14 goals in 64 matches and playing a pivotal role in the club’s surge out of League One.

The 2024-25 season proved to be a breakthrough campaign for Rathbone, who was named Wrexham’s Player of the Season as Phil Parkinson’s side sealed promotion. His most recent strike came on the opening day of the current Championship season, a late equaliser away to Bristol City that set the tone for the club’s second-tier return.

Speaking after committing his future to the Red Dragons, Rathbone said: “I’m absolutely delighted to sign a new contract. It’s a special day for me and my family. I’m over the moon. My time here has been great so far. It’s probably the best football I’ve played in my career. I want to keep playing, keep improving, and create more special moments for this Club.”

Manager Phil Parkinson echoed those sentiments, praising the midfielder’s resilience and impact: “We’re delighted for Ollie to be rewarded with a new contract. He was outstanding for us last season in our promotion campaign. He’s come back stronger than ever from his pre-season injury and this contract is well deserved.”

Rathbone’s emergence is the latest example of Manchester United’s academy influence extending well beyond Old Trafford. Wrexham have already dipped into that talent pool once more this summer, adding fellow former United prospect Matty James to the squad last month.

With Rathbone now secured for the next three seasons, Wrexham supporters will hope his energy, goals and creativity can help stabilise the club in the Championship and continue the remarkable upward trajectory begun under the club’s Hollywood ownership.