Ronny Deila, who won three championships as a manager in Europe, has been named New York City FC's new head coach.
Deila, 44, spent the past three years with Valerenga in Norway's top flight. He led Celtic FC to back-to-back Scottish Premiership titles in his three seasons (2014-16) there. And Deila also managed Strømsgodset in his native Norway from 2008-14, winning a championship there.
"When the opportunity came up to join New York City FC as their new Head Coach, it was a dream come true for me to manage an amazing Club in a great city," Deila told NYCFC.com.
Brad Sims, New York City FC's CEO, called Deila "the perfect fit" for the club.
"He's an experienced manager that has succeeded in winning trophies at clubs with high expectations like we have here at NYCFC," Sims said. "Importantly, not only are we getting a wonderful coach, but also an exceptional person. I can't wait for our fans to meet Ronny and get to know him. We're looking forward to Ronny joining us for preseason as we prepare for an incredibly exciting 2020 campaign."
Deila, who signed a three-year contract with NYCFC, was a defender during his 19-year playing career in Norway for IF Urædd, Odds BK, Viking FK, Strømsgodset and Sparta Bragerøen.
He replaces Dome Torrent, who mutually parted ways with NYCFC after last season.
Deila takes over a team that earned the top seed in the Eastern Conference last season before falling to Toronto FC in the conference semifinals
"When I come in, it's important to continue to build on what's already proven to be a strong foundation and to get some of my ideas across," he said. "The way I want to play and the way NYCFC has played is very similar. I'm a very attacking coach. We want to have the ball as much as possible, but also try to be direct when you have those opportunities."
NYCFC begins Concacaf Champions League play on Feb. 20 and opens its MLS season March 1.
