Former Celtic Boss Ronny Deila Faces Sexual Harassment Investigation in Israel

Ronny Deila, the 50-year-old manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv, is under investigation by Israeli authorities following allegations of sexual harassment involving a female taxi driver in the early morning hours of Thursday.

The Norwegian coach, who previously managed Celtic and New York City FC, provided a statement to Israeli broadcaster N12 acknowledging the incident but citing memory issues due to alcohol consumption. "I do not remember the details of the incident, as I had too much to drink," Deila told the media outlet.

Tel Aviv police confirmed they questioned a foreign national matching Deila's age and description—identified only as a senior coach at a first-division club—after a complaint was filed over the weekend. The individual was subsequently released but remains under restrictive conditions as the investigation continues.

Manager Issues Public Apology

In his statement, Deila offered apologies to multiple parties affected by the alleged incident. He expressed remorse to the taxi driver, describing his apology as "sincere and wholehearted," while also addressing Maccabi Tel Aviv members and supporters.

The former Celtic manager emphasized that the behaviour in question does not align with his personal values and accepted responsibility for the situation. However, his explanation—centring on his inability to recall specifics due to intoxication—has left questions unanswered about the actual nature of the alleged harassment.

Second Controversy in Recent Weeks

This isn't the first off-field incident involving Deila during his time in Tel Aviv. Just last month, reports surfaced alleging he had been removed from a Berlin-style bar after reportedly mistreating staff members who declined to serve him additional alcohol. Police were reportedly summoned to the scene.

However, that story took a dramatic turn when the bar's manager publicly refuted the claims, stating that Deila had behaved appropriately throughout his visit and that no such incident occurred. No charges resulted from that alleged episode.

Implications for the Israeli Club

Deila assumed control of Maccabi Tel Aviv just this past February, bringing former Rangers and Scotland international Kenny Miller on board as his assistant coach. The appointment marked his return to top-level club management after his stint with MLS side New York City FC.

For one of Israel's most prominent football clubs, having their manager under active police investigation and subject to restrictive conditions presents an unwanted distraction during the competitive season. The ongoing scrutiny threatens to derail Maccabi Tel Aviv's championship ambitions at a critical juncture.

Deila's coaching credentials include two Scottish Premiership championships and a League Cup triumph during his tenure at Celtic Park. Those accomplishments now risk being overshadowed by matters completely removed from the pitch.