Video: Former Celtic boss Deila brilliantly goes berserk on touchline as NYCFC make history

By Euan Davidson

December 1, 2021

Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila has turned around his reputation at NYCFC, taking the New Yorkers to their first MLS Eastern Conference final.

Deila, who won two league titles with Celtic, was facing mutiny from supporters mere weeks ago. However, the Norwegian has turned things around at the Yankee Stadium, finishing 4th in the Eastern Conference [MLS].

That, of course, led to play-off contention. Remarkably, Deila’s side beat New England Revolution on penalties, a side who finished with 8 more wins in the regular season [MLS].

That sets up a final against 2nd seeded Philadelphia Union this Saturday [MLS].

Deila, ever the enthusiast, can be seen going typically tonto in a clip shared by NYCFC.

We’re talking not just about a manager who popularised the Ronny Roar. He also has a tendency of taking his clothes off when he celebrates, so there’s that [Guardian].

It’s NYCFC’s first Eastern Conference Final.

Patrick Vieira, now at Crystal Palace, couldn’t lead a star-studded side beyond the quarter finals.

From supporters wanting him out not long ago, Deila is the toast of New York. An exciting climax to the Eastern Conference awaits. More excitingly, Deila could have a chance of winning the franchise’s first MLS title.

It’s great to see former Celtic boss Ronny Deila turning things around at NYCFC

Given the heartbreak Ronny Deila suffered at Celtic with penalties, you can’t blame him for going utterly mental here.

Why shouldn’t he? It really wasn’t long ago that Deila seemed destined for the job queue. Instead, he’s intent on bringing footballing success to a city more famous for basketball and baseball.

Maybe the next generation of New Yorkers will wear NYCFC caps. Fine, probably not. But elbowing for space amongst New York’s sporting heritage really is phenomenal going.

It’s hard not to root for Deila. After all, he loved being at Celtic. The supporters took to him, and although results weren’t always great, he secured two titles.

Then, when he knew the tide was turning, he was classy in announcing his relegation ahead of time, to let Celtic appoint a replacement. That came in the form of Brendan Rodgers.

While Rodgers rightly received adulation for his success at Celtic, Deila helped to build the team that went Invincible, and started a historic run of domestic trophy wins.

So, power to you Ronny. We’ll be backing his NYCFC side as the MLS draws to a close.

Read more: Report: Celtic after barrier-breaking EPL talent; 11 goals in 12 games at youth level