Ronny Deila responds to Norwegian criticism of his Maccabi Tel Aviv move

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The Celtic Star

·3. Februar 2026

Ronny Deila responds to Norwegian criticism of his Maccabi Tel Aviv move

Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila has stood by his decision to take charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv despite facing strong criticism in Norway…

The 50-year-old was confirmed as the Israeli club’s new head coach, with former Ibrox and Scotland striker Kenny Miller joining him as assistant manager.

However, his appointment has sparked backlash in his homeland, where Norway has been outspoken in its condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza and has severed formal diplomatic ties with the country.

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Despite the controversy, Deila has maintained that he is comfortable with his choice and says he is fully focused on his new role.

Since departing Celtic a decade ago, Deila has worked at Valerenga, New York City FC, Standard Liege, Club Brugge, Al Wahda and Atlanta United.

Ronny Deila Celtic manager lifts the double at the Scottish Premiership Match between Celtic and Inverness Caley Thistle at Celtic Park on 24 May, 2015.. (Photo by Jeff Holmes/Getty Images)

Speaking of the decision to join Maccabi Tel Aviv, the ex-Hoops boss said via Daily Record: “I am not a politician and I do not think that sports and politics should be mixed. That is all I have to say on this subject. I am focusing on football.

“I’ve never played against an Israeli team and I’ve never been to Israel, so this is a new experience for me. I’m very excited to come to Maccabi Tel Aviv, I think this is the biggest club in Israel. This is a great opportunity for me.

“I like working at clubs that have high expectations and I saw that there are high-level players here. The owner of the team made a great impression on me.”

Deila added: “When you’re at a club like Maccabi Tel Aviv, a title is the goal, but there’s a gap in the table that we’ll have to close. We’re the ones chasing now and we’ll see what we can achieve.

“Signing a short term deal until the end of the season is something we agreed on together. If things come together the way we think, then there will be continuity.”

Celtic manager Ronny Deila arrives ahead of the Scottish League Cup Semi final match between Ross County and Celtic at Hampden Stadium on January 31, 2016. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty images)

My colleague Just an Ordinary Bhoy outlined his views on Ronny Deila’s move to Maccabi Tel Aviv on The Celtic Star at the weekend.

Conor Spence

Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order