Former Celtic Boss Ronny Deila Under Investigation for Alleged Sexual Harassment in Tel Aviv

Ronny Deila, the 50-year-old manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv, is facing a police investigation in Israel after allegedly sexually harassing a female taxi driver during the early morning hours this past Thursday.

In a statement provided to Israeli broadcaster N12, Deila attributed his inability to recall specifics of the incident to excessive alcohol consumption. "I do not remember the details of the incident, as I had too much to drink," the Norwegian coach stated.

Tel Aviv police have confirmed that a foreign national of Deila's age and description—identified as a senior coach at a top-tier Israeli club—was questioned and subsequently released with restrictions following a complaint lodged over the weekend. While authorities haven't officially named Deila, all details align with the Maccabi manager.

Apology raises questions about accountability

Deila's public apology hit the expected notes: he expressed sincere regret to the taxi driver, the club, and supporters, while stating that his alleged behaviour contradicts his personal values and accepting responsibility for the situation.

However, critics have pointed out that citing memory loss due to intoxication rather than directly addressing what transpired leaves significant questions unanswered. The distinction hasn't gone unnoticed by observers.

This marks the second controversy surrounding Deila in Tel Aviv within weeks. Last month, reports surfaced claiming he was removed from a Berlin-themed establishment after allegedly mistreating staff who declined to serve him additional drinks. Police were summoned to the scene. The bar's management later disputed the account entirely, insisting Deila behaved appropriately and that no incident occurred. No charges were filed.

Implications for Maccabi Tel Aviv's season

Deila assumed control of Maccabi Tel Aviv just this past February, bringing former Rangers and Scotland international Kenny Miller aboard as his assistant coach. The appointment turned heads, given that Deila's most recent top-flight position before Israel was with New York City FC in Major League Soccer.

Having a manager actively under investigation and operating under police-imposed restrictions creates an unwelcome distraction for any football club, particularly mid-campaign. Maccabi Tel Aviv represents one of Israel's most prestigious football institutions, and their championship aspirations become increasingly complicated with each negative headline.

Deila's coaching résumé includes two Scottish Premiership titles and a League Cup during his tenure at Celtic. That professional credibility is now being overshadowed by matters completely unrelated to what happens on the pitch.