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Wrexham are one of four EFL clubs preparing to compete in a new domestic cup competition, which will allow them to compete in European competition under the Welsh flag for the first time in three decades.
Subject to FA approval, Cardiff, Swansea, Newport and Phil Parkinson’s First Division sides will join 12 JD Cymru Premier clubs in a revamped 16-team Welsh League Cup competition .
The Football Association of Wales said the winner of the match will advance to the qualifying rounds of the UEFA club competition.
Wrexham were the last Welsh EFL club to qualify for the Europa League through the domestic route – taking part in the 1995-96 Cup Winners’ Cup – although Swansea competed in the Europa League under the English flag in 2013 after winning the EFL Cup.
The FAW said Cardiff, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham had agreed to exclude any profits from representing Wales in European competitions from the financial regulation of the EFL or Premier League.
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Highlights from a match between Wrexham and Peterborough United in the Sky Bet League
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney said: “This will be a game-changer for the game as we work to unlock the full potential of Welsh football.
“It will unite Welsh football, improve the game at all levels and deliver meaningful social benefits across Wales, making our clubs and communities more sustainable.
“Significant additional revenue will be generated by improving the Welsh League Cup competition and expanding the participation of the four highest ranked Welsh clubs in the English football pyramid.
Wrexham are fighting for promotion from League One
“This will be distributed in JD Cymru Premier, Genero Adran Premier (Wales’ top women’s league) and grassroots facilities across the country.
“It also represents the spirit of collaboration between football associations across the UK ahead of the two countries co-hosting Euro 2028.”
FAW believes that the revamped Welsh League Cup, which will be played in four knockout rounds, can generate an additional £3 million in revenue each season.
Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney (left) and Ryan Reynolds own Wrexham
Potential winners of the EFL could boost the UEFA Association club coefficient in Wales, which currently ranks among the lowest in Europe.
FAW said the plan had also been discussed with UEFA, the Welsh Secretary of State and the Welsh Government, pending final approval for the competition to begin next season.
