Over the past decade, professional football in Wales has undergone a remarkable shift. The rise of the Cymru national team from long-standing underachievement to international credibility, alongside Wrexham’s own revival, has reshaped how Welsh football is viewed at home and abroad.
A Genuine Rollercoaster
Over the past decade, professional football in Wales has changed dramatically. The Cymru national team rose from long-standing underachievement to international credibility. At the same time, Wrexham’s revival reshaped how fans at home and abroad view Welsh football. In In the Dragons’ Den, award-winning journalist Paul Abbandonato charts this journey with honesty, insight and a sharp eye for defining moments.
Drawing on decades of reporting and first-hand access, Abbandonato presents Welsh football as a true rollercoaster. The sport delivered exhilarating highs, followed by sudden and often baffling lows. For many years, outsiders dismissed Wales as perennial also-rans who lacked star quality. Abbandonato challenges this view by highlighting the nation’s rich footballing heritage. He also raises the inevitable “what if?” questions about generations that never quite aligned.
A central theme of the book explores the Football Association of Wales and the decisions that shaped each era. The chapter on Terry Yorath’s tenure and the agonising near miss in 1993 stands out. Abbandonato uses this moment to reveal weaknesses in governance and succession planning. These failures pushed the national team into years of instability. Later appointments, including the troubled period under Bobby Gould, serve as warnings about poor leadership and cultural disconnect.
Youth Redevelopment
However, the story does not focus solely on failure. Abbandonato highlights the gradual rebuilding process that began with John Toshack’s return. His commitment to youth development laid vital foundations. The rise of players such as Ashley Williams, Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale came from long-term planning rather than luck.
The emotional heart of the book centres on Gary Speed’s appointment. Abbandonato captures the hope he brought to Welsh football and the devastation following his death in 2011. The nation’s shared grief eventually turned into resilience under Chris Coleman. This journey led to the unforgettable Euro 2016 run and the unifying message of “Together Stronger”.
The book continues through recent years, covering World Cup qualification, managerial changes and the current mood of cautious optimism. Throughout, Abbandonato blends analysis, storytelling and personal insight with confidence.
In the Dragons’ Den offers an honest and compelling account of modern Welsh football. It will resonate with lifelong supporters and new fans alike. Above all, it provides clarity and perspective on a journey shaped by pride, pain and persistence.
We hope you enjoyed reading “Welsh Football: The Highs, Lows and the Crazy“. Click here for more of John’s book reviews.
Author: John Morris for Love Wrexham Magazine
John is an FA coach. He has worked with young players at Fulham, Chelsea, QPR and Wrexham, promoting resilience, tenacity and self-discipline. He is currently a consultant addressing growth mindsets to promote sports, education, and business performance.
