Phil Parkinson Comment Reveals How Much Wrexham Wanted Jacques Ekomie

Wrexham announced the signing of Jacques Ekomie from Angers on Thursday, and Phil Parkinson’s reaction at the Racecourse gave a clear indication of just how much the club wanted the 23-year-old Gabon international.

The defender has agreed a four-year deal with Wrexham that runs until 2030, joining from Ligue 1 after appearing in 32 of Angers’ 34 league matches last season. That level of involvement backs up Parkinson’s claim that Wrexham had worked hard to get the deal over the line.

There was competition for Ekomie’s signature late in the window too, adding further context to the effort required to bring the left-back to North Wales.

Parkinson reveals Wrexham’s pursuit of Ekomie

This wasn’t a deal that simply appeared at the last minute. Speaking after the move was announced, Parkinson highlighted the work that had gone into securing Ekomie’s signature.

“We’re very pleased to sign Jacques. It’s a transfer we worked very hard on.”

Further remarks reported by the BBC added context, with Parkinson explaining that Wrexham had been working on Ekomie “for quite a while” and faced “quite a bit of competition” to get the deal done.

The numbers from France help explain the interest. Ekomie played 32 league games for Angers last season, starting 25 and recording 2,247 minutes as he established himself as a regular left-sided defender at Ligue 1 level.

His defensive output included 33 successful tackles from 39 attempts, alongside 69 clearances and 12 blocks. There was little direct attacking production, with no league goals or assists, but Wrexham have recruited a player accustomed to playing week after week in the French top flight.

Ekomie arrives with experience to build on

At 23, Ekomie still has plenty of development ahead, but he doesn’t arrive short of senior football. He spent two seasons with Angers after starting his professional career at Bordeaux and already has 22 caps for Gabon.

The length of the contract is notable too. Wrexham have tied him down until the summer of 2030, giving Parkinson time to work with a defender who already has top-flight experience but remains young enough to develop further.

Ekomie’s own words suggest that development was part of the attraction.

“I’m excited to be here. It is a very big and interesting project for me. I’m here to progress, and I’m very happy to be here.

“I want to achieve great things at Wrexham. I think it’s an ambitious project and I want to bring all my experience to help the team achieve our goals.”

The signing was confirmed on the same day as Issa Kaboré’s permanent return, giving Parkinson two fresh options before Friday night’s Championship meeting with Birmingham City.

Ekomie now has to earn his place, but the work Wrexham put into getting him suggests this was a signing they particularly wanted. For a player already accustomed to regular Ligue 1 football, the next challenge is showing why at the Racecourse.