Ronny Deila, 50, currently managing Maccabi Tel Aviv, is accused of sexually harassing a female taxi driver in Tel Aviv after a night of drinking. The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, shortly after Deila returned to Israel following a period of absence due to the Middle East conflict.
Israeli police confirmed questioning a 50-year-old foreign national after receiving a complaint. Deila acknowledged the investigation, stating, “An incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, during my trip home in a taxi.” He apologized but added he does not remember the details of the incident as he had too much to drink.
“If my words offended the taxi driver, I apologise to her sincerely and wholeheartedly for that.” He also apologised to club members and fans, admitting, “This conduct does not meet the standards and values that I set for myself. I take responsibility for the situation and undertake to learn from it, improve and handle these matters in a professional and appropriate manner.”
According to Israeli outlet Mako, the driver alleged Deila “offered her all kinds of sexual proposals” and said she was “totally shocked.” Furthermore, also claimed Deila did not pay his fare for the six-minute journey.
Leaving in tears
Deila was released under restrictive conditions while the investigation continues. His future at Maccabi Tel Aviv is uncertain as he was asked by the club to take a leave of absence. According to reports from Israel, he left the club in tears after saying his goodbyes to the players.
In his absence, however long it may be, assistant coach Kenny Miller will take over head coaching duties. It comes in a crucial part of the season as Maccabi sit third in the championship group of the Israeli league, six points behind leaders Beitar Jerusalem who they lost to recently.