Wrexham kicked off their 2025-26 pre-season with a bang, securing a commanding 3-0 victory against Melbourne Victory in the first leg of their Australian tour.

Manager Phil Parkinson was particularly impressed with striker Ryan Hardie, who made a sensational debut by finding the back of the net.

Now in Sydney for their next match, the anticipation builds as Wrexham looks set to welcome back Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez, who missed out on the Melbourne game.

However, despite the convincing win, Parkinson is cautious about the upcoming challenge, underscoring the athletic abilities of A-League teams.

Phil Parkinson Sounds the Alarm Over A-League Athleticism

At a recent press conference, Parkinson stressed the importance of recognizing the athletic nature of Australian teams, saying, “All the teams are very athletic; we saw that against Melbourne Victory. Many players here are moving into European leagues, which is fantastic!”

He acknowledged that while their season may be distant, A-League clubs are gearing up with cup competitions and have been in training alongside Wrexham.

“There are many technically skilled players, but the real standout is their athleticism,” he noted, reflecting on the team’s pace and endurance.

“Facing that kind of competition was beneficial for us.”

Strengthening the Squad: Wrexham’s Transfer Interest in Liberato Cacace

Wrexham is reportedly keen on signing Liberato Cacace as part of their defensive strategy, especially after Thomas O’Connor faced challenges against the speed of Melbourne's attackers.

Parkinson seeks to bolster the left side of defense with depth, knowing the demands of the Championship season ahead.

Cacace, a New Zealand international known for his sprinting prowess, could be the ideal addition to enhance Wrexham's squad, aligning perfectly with Parkinson’s emphasis on athleticism.