Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila is returning to Major League Soccer as the new head coach of Atlanta United for the 2025 campaign.

The move marks a return to familiar territory for the Norwegian, who previously enjoyed success in the league with New York City FC.
A new era – get on board. #ATLUTD hires Ronny Deila as Head Coach 🔴⚫️ pic.twitter.com/OMjIisUByk
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) December 20, 2024
Deila, now 49, most recently managed Al Wahda in the UAE, but his appointment at Atlanta signals another chapter in a career that has seen him manage across multiple countries and secure significant silverware along the way.
Deila enjoyed a mixed but ultimately successful spell at Celtic Park between 2014 and 2016, winning two leagues and one league cup.
While his tenure wasn’t without its critics, Deila’s achievements in keeping Celtic dominant in Scotland laid the groundwork for the club’s future successes.
After his stint in Scotland, Deila moved to MLS, where he guided New York City FC to their first-ever MLS Cup title in 2021. He also won the Eastern Conference during his time in the United States.
Notably, there has been no official confirmation about the future of Kenny Miller, who served as Deila’s assistant during his time in the UAE. Miller, a former Rangers player, has accompanied Deila in recent roles, but whether he will join him at Atlanta United remains unclear.