In its debut season, “Welcome to Wrexham” captivated audiences with its heartwarming portrayal of the bond between a soccer team and its community. The series, driven by the celebrity ownership of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, was a surprise hit, celebrated for its authenticity and charm. However, the spin-off series “Necaxa” seems to have missed the mark entirely, presenting a stark contrast to its predecessor.
“Necaxa,” fronted by actress Eva Longoria, attempts to replicate the success of “Welcome to Wrexham” but falls short, delivering a product that feels contrived and lacking in genuine connection. The series focuses on the Mexican soccer club Necaxa, which was partially acquired by a U.S.-based investment group in 2021. Despite the potential for compelling storytelling, the show struggles to capture the same magic that made “Welcome to Wrexham” so beloved.
The Missing Magic of Wrexham
When “Welcome to Wrexham” premiered, it was praised for its ability to capture the essence of a small-town club and its passionate supporters. The series highlighted the challenges and triumphs of Wrexham AFC, a team with a rich history and a deep connection to its community. The involvement of McElhenney and Reynolds, while notable, was not the focal point; instead, the series celebrated the spirit of the town and its people.
In contrast, “Necaxa” seems to prioritize star power over substance. Eva Longoria, known for her role in “Desperate Housewives,” is positioned as a central figure in the narrative, despite having minimal knowledge of soccer. Her involvement feels more like a marketing strategy than a genuine connection to the club or its fans. This approach detracts from the authenticity that made “Welcome to Wrexham” so special.
Challenges of Authentic Storytelling
The challenges faced by “Necaxa” are not solely due to its focus on celebrity. The club itself, based in Aguascalientes, lacks the emotional resonance that Wrexham AFC has with its community. As a fixture in Mexico’s top-flight Liga MX, Necaxa does not embody the underdog spirit that resonated with viewers of “Welcome to Wrexham.” The series struggles to manufacture drama from the team’s mid-table status, resulting in a narrative that feels forced and uninspired.
Moreover, the series fails to address the complexities of the club’s ownership. Longoria’s role within the investment group is unclear, and the show does little to explore the dynamics of the consortium, which includes notable figures like former Arsenal star Mesut Ozil. This lack of transparency undermines the credibility of the series and leaves viewers questioning the true stakes involved.
Implications for Future Sports Docuseries
The reception of “Necaxa” raises important questions about the future of sports docuseries. As the genre continues to grow in popularity, there is a risk of prioritizing celebrity involvement over authentic storytelling. The success of “Welcome to Wrexham” demonstrated the power of genuine narratives that resonate with audiences, while “Necaxa” serves as a cautionary tale of what can happen when that authenticity is lost.
For future projects, it is crucial to focus on the stories that truly matter—the players, the fans, and the communities that support them. By doing so, producers can create content that not only entertains but also inspires and connects with viewers on a deeper level.
As “Necaxa” unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the series can overcome its initial shortcomings and deliver a narrative that honors the spirit of the sport. For now, it stands as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities inherent in capturing the magic of soccer on screen.
