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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Pirie

Ronny Deila and the Celtic connection behind emotional MLS celebration as beloved former boss seals title triumph

Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila made history in the MLS Cup Final on penalties - and kept his Parkhead connections alive during emotional celebrations.

The Norwegian boss has taken his New York City side all the way to their first title and lifted his first trophy since leaving the Scottish Premiership.

Celtic fan favourite Deila broke down in tears after the shoot-out victory over the Portland Timbers as he brought the first piece of silverware to Manchester City 's City Football Group American side.

That saw a touching moment as former Celtic defender Efrain Juarez, who now works as Deila's assistant, embraced the head coach with a kiss on the head.

The pair began working together back in Delia's native Norway with Valerenga where the Mexico cap was rounding off his playing career.

During the jubilant post-match, Deila kept to his promise to fans and dropped to the grass to do push-ups in front of the travelling support in his underwear.

The Norwegian famously whipped off his clothes after avoiding relegation with Strømsgodset, the club he managed before his arrival in Scotland.

Ahead of the showpiece final, he told fans: "It’s tough. I’m not 35 anymore. I’m 46 now, so it’s going to be harder.

"I don’t think my kids are going to be very proud of me. But it’s worth it, it’s very worth it."

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