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Ballymena United makes significant roster changes for upcoming season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 9:48 PM

Last updated Aug 2, 2026

Ballymena United makes significant roster changes for upcoming season
Summary

Ballymena United prepares for the 2026-27 season with 10 new signings, aiming to improve on last year's ninth-place finish. Manager Oran Kearney has signed players exclusively from the Irish Premiership, focusing on experience to enhance the team's performance. Their first home match is set against Linfield, featuring players who recently transferred from the Blues. Igor Rutkowski, a key addition from Armagh City, scored 11 goals last season and will seek to replicate that success as the campaign begins. Ballymena's initial fixtures also include matches against Crusaders, Glentoran, Larne, and Bangor.

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Key Details
  • •Ballymena United's first match is against Linfield at home.
  • •Manager Oran Kearney prioritizes Irish Premiership experience in new signings.
  • •Igor Rutkowski scored 11 goals last season for Ballymena.
  • •The team finished ninth in the league last season.
  • •Upcoming fixtures include games against Crusaders and Glentoran.
Latest Updates
  • 9:48 PMYahoo Sports — Ballymena United 2026-27: Big season ahead for much-changed Sky Blues
What they're saying
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BBC Sport NI looks at Ballymena United's prospects for the 2026-27 season.

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