Celtic Name Deila as New Manager

Celtic have confirmed Ronny Deila as new manager on a twelve-year rolling contract.

The Norwegian succeeds Neil Lennon, who left the Scottish champions in May, after guiding the ‘Hoops’ to their third title in a four-year spell.

Deila guided Stromsgodset to the Tippeligaen title last season and won the Norwegian Cup in 2010.

“We (Celtic) believe Ronny will prove to be a fresh and dynamic new manager and someone who will give us a bright and energetic way forward for Celtic,” the club’s chief executive Peter Lawwell told their official website.

Celtic Appoints Ronny Deila as New Manager on a 12-Month Rolling Contract.
Celtic Appoints Ronny Deila as New Manager on a 12-Month Rolling Contract.

“Knowing that he was so highly-rated across Europe, Ronny was one of the first candidates we considered as manager.

“Having discussed the opportunity with him at length, we are convinced he has the talent and the determination to deliver very positive results for the club and our supporters.”

According to the club chief, Deila was considering “three or four options” for an assistant coach.

He took charge of Stromsgodset in 2008, after playing for the club and serving as assistant manager.

Stromsgodset are currently second in Norway’s top flight five points behind Molde, but the 38-year-old’s final match ended a disappointing 4-2 loss to second-tier outfit Tromsdalen in the Norwegian Cup on Wednesday.

“I will treasure this opportunity and will give everything I have to achieve success for Celtic,” Deila said.

“It is a magnificent honour to be named the new manager of Celtic one of the world’s great football clubs and a club I have such enormous respect for.

“I know what I want for Celtic and our supporters and that is the best of everything, it is what our fans deserve.”

The ex-Stromsgodset defender, who won two caps for Norway, becomes Celtic’s fifth manager since 2000.