Ballymena United Confirms Signing of Patrick McEleney from Derry City

Ballymena United has confirmed the acquisition of Derry City captain Patrick McEleney, with the player set to join the club in January. McEleney, 32, has secured four Irish Premier Division titles during his career and previously played for Sunderland at youth level, also making appearances for Oldham Athletic in League One. With more than 300 appearances for Derry City across two separate periods, McEleney’s departure from the Brandywell follows by only 24 hours his brother Shane’s move to Glentoran. Ballymena manager Jim Ervin described the signing as an “incredible boost” for the club. Speaking on Ballymena United’s X account, Ervin stated, “His experience and winning mentality will be invaluable as we continue our exciting project.” He further added, “Signing a player of Patrick’s calibre is an incredible boost for the club. He is a top-class footballer, widely respected across the game.”