Harambee Stars defender seals move to English Championship side
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Reading Time: 4min | Mon. 02.02.26. | 08:26
Bristol City chairman Jon Lansdown paid tribute to Vyner’s journey, praising both his footballing development and character
English Championship club, Bristol City have confirmed the departure of Harambee Stars prospect Zak Vyner, who has completed a move to Wrexham, bringing an end to a 20-year association with the club
The defender joins the Red Dragons for an undisclosed fee following months of speculation over his future, drawing the curtain on a long and distinguished spell at Ashton Gate.
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Vyner becomes Wrexham’s first signing of 2026 as Phil Parkinson continues to strengthen his squad.
Vyner joined Bristol City’s academy in 2006 and progressed through the ranks to become one of the club’s most consistent performers, making 264 appearances across all competitions.
Born in Peckham, London, he later moved with his family to Bath, spending his formative years in the South West, where his football journey took shape.
Initially deployed as a winger, Vyner was converted into a central defender during his academy years.
He made his first-team debut in February 2016 at the age of 19, featuring in a 2–0 Championship victory over MK Dons.
To aid his development, he embarked on a series of loan spells with Accrington Stanley, Plymouth Argyle, Rotherham United and Scottish side Aberdeen.
His time at Rotherham United proved particularly influential, offering him a full season of Championship football, while his spell at Aberdeen during the 2019/20 campaign added valuable top-flight experience.
Vyner returned to Bristol City to establish himself as a regular starter during the 2020/21 season, initially under Dean Holden before retaining his place following the appointment of Nigel Pearson.
From that point on, he became a mainstay in the City defence.
His growth was recognised in the 2022/23 season when he was voted Players’ Player of the Year by his teammates.
Last season marked a major high point, as he played every minute of all 46 Championship matches to help Bristol City secure a Championship play-off place for the first time since 2008.
In October 2025, Vyner made his 219th Championship appearance for the club, surpassing Marvin Elliott to become Bristol City’s record Championship appearance holder.
He departs as one of the most enduring figures in the club’s modern era.
Bristol City chairman Jon Lansdown paid tribute to Vyner’s journey, praising both his footballing development and character.
“It is a rare feat that you get a player playing their entire career at one club, and with Zak, he has not quite done that, but he has been a professional here for over a decade, with nearly another decade in the academy before that,” Lansdown said.
“It has been a joy to watch Zak’s rise from the academy to our record Championship appearance holder, which is a testament to his hard work and resilience. He has represented the club and the community in an exemplary way during that time, and we wish him the very best for the future.”
On his departure, Vyner reflected on his long-standing connection with the club, having joined at just eight years old.
“I have been on this journey with you since I was eight. I never imagined it would go this far.
It has been an honour to represent you, and I’m so proud to have worn the shirt so many times," he said.
He also paid tribute to the club’s ownership, staff and coaches.
“There are many people I want to thank and acknowledge, starting with Steve and Jon for your trust in me throughout.
“To all the staff that make Bristol City so special and make going into training every day so great, and to all the academy coaches I’ve had, I wouldn’t be here without you,” he added.
Vyner reserved special praise for head coach Gerhard Struber.
“It has been a privilege to play for you these past few months. The energy, confidence and belief you’ve shown me I will always carry with me.”
He also thanked his teammates and supporters.
“To every one of my teammates, it’s been a pleasure to share a dressing room. We have made so many special memories together on and off the pitch and I have got friends for life.
And finally, the fans. We have had our ups and downs, but we’ve shared so many amazing moments together. And I am one of you now.”
On the international stage, Vyner received his first call-up to the Harambee Stars in 2024 for Kenya’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Burundi on 7 June and Ivory Coast on 11 June respectively.
However, he did not feature in those matches due to the absence of a Kenyan passport at the time.
That matter has since been resolved, clearing him to represent Kenya going forward.
