In a twist that might confuse even the most dedicated football fans, Chester FC have appointed a new manager named Phil Parkinson—and no, it's not the one you're thinking of.

The National League North side has brought in the former Altrincham boss on a two-year deal, hoping to spark a promotion push back to the National League after eight long years away. But the name has naturally raised eyebrows, especially given the success of his namesake—the Phil Parkinson currently leading Wrexham's meteoric rise through the leagues with Hollywood backing.

If you can't beat them, join them, right? Chester fans have watched their bitter rivals rocket up the football pyramid under their own Phil Parkinson, and now they've got one of their own. It's a bold move that's already got supporters talking.

While it's unlikely we'll see a "Phil Parkinson derby" anytime soon—Chester's new boss is taking over a side that finished seventh in the sixth tier, while the Wrexham version was just missing out on a Championship play-off spot—the two have crossed paths before. During Wrexham's time in non-league, all four league meetings went the way of the Welsh side, though Altrincham did snatch a penalty shootout win in the 2023 FA Trophy.

New Chester boss Phil Parkinson is promising big things. "Expect a real modern-day approach to football," he said upon signing. "We have a set way of going about things, an identity that we won't deviate from."

If he can deliver even a fraction of the success his namesake has enjoyed just down the road, Chester's faithful will be absolutely thrilled. For now, the Blues have their own Phil Parkinson—and a whole lot of hope to match.