In a football landscape increasingly defined by narratives as much as league tables, Wrexham AFC continues to write its compelling next chapter. The newly-promoted EFL Championship side has reportedly reached an agreement with Italian club Empoli to sign 24-year-old New Zealand international full-back, Liberato Cacace, for a fee of €2.5 million plus potential bonuses. This acquisition marks a significant statement of intent as Wrexham prepares for the rigours of England’s second-highest division.
A Proven Talent from Serie A
Liberato Cacace arrives in Wales having spent nearly four years sharpening his skills in Italy`s top flight, Serie A. For a significant portion of his career, he has been a consistent presence for Empoli. During the 2024-25 season, despite his club`s ultimate relegation to Serie B, Cacace was a standout performer, featuring in 33 Serie A matches and contributing two goals from his defensive position. His ability to impact play from the left-back role, both defensively and in attack, made him one of Empoli`s most important players, even as they battled against the drop.
Beyond his recent club form, Cacace brings a wealth of experience that belies his age. With a total of 76 Serie A appearances under his belt, he has regularly tested himself against some of the world`s best attackers. Furthermore, his international career is equally impressive, boasting 33 caps for the New Zealand national team. This extensive exposure to high-level competition, from Europe`s top leagues to international fixtures, positions him as a mature and reliable asset for Wrexham`s evolving squad.
Wrexham`s Unique Magnetism
Wrexham, a name that barely registered on the international football radar a few short years ago, now boasts a magnetism rivaling established giants. This transformation, largely attributed to the astute ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, coupled with the global phenomenon of their Disney+ documentary series, has granted the club a unique allure. Players are no longer just joining a football club; they are becoming part of a captivating story.
The reported €2.5 million fee for Cacace is more than just a figure; it`s a statement. It underscores Wrexham`s financial ambition and willingness to invest in quality to accelerate their journey up the football pyramid. For a newly promoted side, attracting a player with extensive Serie A and international experience highlights the unconventional yet effective appeal of the “Red Dragons” project. It suggests that Wrexham isn`t just seeking to survive in the Championship; they intend to compete.
The Strategic Fit: Experience Meets Ambition
The acquisition of Liberato Cacace is a shrewd move for Wrexham. As they step up to the Championship, the pace, physicality, and tactical demands will be significantly higher than in League One. An experienced, technically sound full-back is crucial in such an environment. Cacace’s defensive solidity, combined with his proven ability to contribute to offensive plays, makes him a well-rounded option for manager Phil Parkinson`s system.
On paper, a move from Italy`s Serie A to England`s second tier might seem like a demotion. Yet, for Liberato Cacace, this represents a leap into one of football`s most intriguing projects. The opportunity to play a pivotal role in a club with such an upward trajectory, under global scrutiny, offers a different kind of prestige. It’s an unusual career pivot, perhaps, but one that aligns with Wrexham`s unconventional rise: a club that defies traditional expectations, attracting talent not solely by league status, but by the sheer force of its compelling narrative and relentless ambition.
As Wrexham prepares to navigate the rigorous demands of the EFL Championship, the acquisition of Liberato Cacace underscores their commitment to building a competitive squad capable of not just surviving, but thriving. His arrival is not merely a transfer; it`s another bold brushstroke on Wrexham`s ever-unfolding canvas, painting a picture of a club determined to challenge norms and continue its remarkable ascent.
