During his introductory press conference in December, Ronny Deila said he couldn't wait to get on a plane and get to work at his new job in Atlanta.
Now, he's arrived.
Atlanta United's new head coach arrived to the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground in Marietta the first week of January following the holidays. Deila was announced head coach on December 20, marking an exciting new beginning for the club.
The Norwegian manager brings with him a seasoned and successful background. During his 17-year managerial career, he's won six trophies -- four league titles and two domestic cup competitions.
"We really wanted to add a proven winner, and Ronny exudes that," said club president & CEO Garth Lagerwey. "I get excited about working with someone like Ronny. The way he talks about people, the way he talks about building relationships. the way he talks about collaborating, the way he talks about leadership. I think those are all really consistent with our core values."
"What I've noticed about Ronny is his connection with the players," echoed Chief Soccer Officer & Sporting Director Chris Henderson. "Building that trust, having fun and creating an environment where players want to come in, learn, and grow everyday is something that wins championships and brings teams together in success."
Atlanta is the second club in Major League Soccer where Deila has been head coach. He previouly served as head coach of New York City FC in the Eastern Conference. He led NYCFC to the MLS Cup in 2021. The team lifted the trophy after a win in penalties over Portland Timbers.
Deila's coaching history includes success in a variety of competitions, not only MLS. When asked how he's managed to create consistency across different leagues and different countries, Deila spoke about his ability to build togetherness and learn from a club's existing knowledge.
"One of my strengths is that I'm good at working together with people," Deila said. "My job is 60-70 percent to be a leader, being together with people and leading them. Then, of course, you have that 30-40 percent football."
Back in December while he was still physically overseas, Deila spoke of not only connecting with players but that he also looked forward to meeting members throughout the club. On his first day in Atlanta, he was able to do that. He went around the Training Ground and introduced himself to staff, from the kitchen staff to the community impact team.
The introduction was not a completely new slate for the 49-year-old. From his previous time managing in MLS, Deila is familiar with Atlanta United and coached against the club. Now, he's on the side of the 5-Stripes and has the chance to lead them to success on the pitch.
"I played against Atlanta before. I know what kind of fans they have, what kind of stadium and what kind of opportunities they have to win something and to create something special. This is a dream to have an opportunity to come here and work with you."
