Ballymena United confirm contract termination 'by mutual consent' ahead of new Irish League season

Former Crusaders striker Ebbe joined the Sky Blues from Dundalk in December alongside Igor Rutkowski before making his league debut in a 2-2 home draw against Cliftonville the following month.

The 32-year-old made 11 appearances across all competitions during his short stint at Ballymena, including 10 in the Premiership, but is now available as a free agent.

Ballymena posted: “Ballymena United can confirm that the club has agreed with Dean Ebbe to terminate the remainder of his contract by mutual consent.

“The 32-year-old forward joined Ballymena United from Dundalk late last year and made eleven appearances during his time with the club, following his debut in January 2026.

“Everyone at the club would like to thank Dean for his contribution to the Sky Blues and wish him every success in the next stage of his football journey.”

Ebbe, who has also enjoyed spells at the likes of Shamrock Rovers, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and The New Saints, won the Irish Cup with Crusaders in 2023 – he scored a hat-trick in their fifth round victory over Dergview.

He netted once in 25 league appearances for Stephen Baxter’s side during the 2022/23 season before departing for Manchester 62 of Gibraltar.

Upon announcing Ebbe’s arrival at Ballymena, manager Oran Kearney told the club’s media channel: "Ebbe plays in an area of the pitch we need to improve on and we want strength and depth there too.

"He's shown character and drive at Dundalk and you want people who are hungry and maybe want to prove a point after a spell in the league before."

Kearney is undertaking a squad overhaul ahead of his first full season as Ballymena boss with David Walsh, Charlie Allen, Chris McKee, Scot Whiteside, Stephen Fallon, Micheal Glynn, Jonny Addis, Josh Archer, Owen Mahoney and Caoimhin McConnell joining this summer.

A host of players have also departed the Co Antrim club, including Danny Lafferty, Joel Thompson and Daire O’Connor.