Ronna Deila has put new club Bruges on a par with Celtic.
The Norwegian caused controversy in Belgium when he quit Standard Liege to take over their Pro League rivals. He’s been branded a traitor by Standard fans for jumping ship to the deposed Belgian champions, while interim boss Geoffrey Vallene, who said he felt “betrayed” by his predecessor following a 4-0 derby thumping at the hands of rivals Cercle Bruges.
Deila had insisted no talks had taken place between him and Bruges, only to make the move the following week. Now Deila, who spent two seasons at Parkhead between 2014 and 2016, picking up two Scottish Premiership titles and two League Cps, reckons the Blauw-Zwart are on the same level as his former club in Glasgow and have just as lofty ambitions. “I place Bruges at the level of Celtic, it's a bit the same thing. It may be a bit bigger at Celtic in terms of supporters, but in terms of sporting level, Brugge are at least on the same level,” he told Telemarksavisa.
“What are Bruges' ambitions? The ambitions are great, but the conditions, the fundamentals are also better there. It will be an exciting challenge.”
Reflecting on his departure from Liege despite his previous comments, Deila explained: "You know, I have the ambition to go as far and high as possible in football, so it's an obvious decision for me.
“We live in a cynical and cruel world. I try to seize opportunities when they come my way. Then I do my best. It's a fun, but tiring life. Top-level football is an all-consuming activity, but I don't know any other life. I haven't taken time for myself since I've been in football."
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