Wisła Kraków vs Wrexaham. Credit: Wisła Kraków X
Wrexham kick off their training for the 2026/27 Championship season on Saturday as they take on Wisła Kraków at Synerise Arena in Poland. This pre-season match comes up as part of the celebrations of the Polish team’s 120 years of existence and is quite challenging for Phil Parkinson’s team since it’s their first match, and their opponents are well-prepared from their pre-season camp.
The outcome of the match may not give much information at this stage of the season, but it will be an early clue to how prepared Wrexham is from a physical standpoint ahead of a new season.
Wisła earned promotion to the Ekstraklasa last season and have played three pre-season games.
Team news
As Wrexham only got back into training last week, Saturday’s game is set to revolve around getting fit rather than playing the best possible team.
Harry Ashfield is set to travel with the squad following his strong finish to last season, though a number of players who have been competing internationally this summer are not set to feature.
Liberato Cacace, Dominic Hyam, Danny Ward, Nathan Broadhead and Kieffer Moore are all expected to be absent for the first match of the pre-season campaign after arriving late compared to the rest of the squad.
Matty James even suggested that fans should expect changes all day.
“You don’t want to peak too early in pre-season.
“You want to get minutes in the legs but I’m sure the first game will be split, 45 minutes or something like that.”
This way of doing things is standard practice with Parkinson, and it should see almost all the senior players on show get vital time before thoughts turn to next week’s matches.
Why Parkinson wanted this fixture
Instead of easing them in with weaker teams, Parkinson feels Wisła offer the type of opposition Wrexham require.
“When the fixture came around, we kind of jumped it because first of all it’s a very competitive game to be involved in, but secondly, it’s another great experience for our players and staff, and also the supporters who are making the weekend of it.
“I think there’s about 1,500 who are doing that but the most important thing for us is the match and getting the physical workout, and I’m confident it will be that.”
The manager also spoke warmly about visiting Kraków, recognising both the city’s history and Wisła’s passionate support, with the occasion expected to generate an atmosphere that feels far more competitive than a typical July friendly.
What to expect from Wisła Kraków
However, while Wrexham come into the new Championship season filled with hope, their opponents are already getting into shape.
Wisła had managed to win the Polish second division title last year after being nine points clear at the top and will be coming off the back of a successful summer, having won two matches since losing 4-3 to Termalica Nieciecza in a 4-3 loss to Puszcza Niepołomice and then beating MFK Karviná.
There is also sure to be extra motivation for the home side with the game taking place on their 120th anniversary.
Predicted Starting Team
GK
- Arthur Okonkwo
Defence
- Lewis Brunt
- Dan Scarr
- Max Cleworth
Midfield
- Ryan Longman
- George Dobson
- Ollie Rathbone
- Harry Ashfield
- Ben Sheaf
Forwards
- Sam Smith
- Josh Windass
Players expected to miss
According to the information provided:
❌ Kieffer Moore (returned to pre-season late)
❌ Liberato Cacace (international duty)
❌ Dominic Hyam (international duty)
❌ Danny Ward (returned to pre-season late)
❌ Nathan Broadhead (returned to pre-season late)
Expect significant changes at half-time, with Parkinson likely to give most senior players around 45 minutes.
Prediction
Supporters shouldn’t read too much into the final scoreline.
Wisława are more physically fit and have played three friendly matches. Meanwhile, the Wrexham are just starting to get their game shape.
This is an important time for Parkinson to concentrate on building up his players physically and getting them organized before taking on tougher opposition such as Manchester United, Leeds United, Liverpool and Sunderland.
Prediction: Wisła Kraków 2-1 Wrexham.
About The Author
