Atlanta United Parts Ways with Head Coach Ronny Deila

Ronny Deila out as Atlanta United coach after 5-win season

Atlanta United parts ways with Ronny Deila. What does this mean for the team's future and who could take the reins?

“It was evident that our standard of play was not met this season, and together with our senior leadership...”

Atlanta United has parted ways with head coach Ronny Deila, the club announced on Sunday, following a dismal MLS season that saw the team manage just five wins and 13 draws in 34 matches. Deila's tenure was marked by inconsistency and underperformance, leading to his dismissal.

Deila, a 50-year-old Norwegian coach, had previously enjoyed success in his career, guiding Celtic to Scottish Premiership titles in 2015 and 2016. He also led New York City FC to the 2021 MLS Cup championship, making his recent struggles in Atlanta all the more notable.

The club's decision to fire Deila comes after a season that failed to meet expectations, despite high-profile signings and a strong preseason campaign. Atlanta United's poor performance on the pitch ultimately led to Deila's departure, paving the way for a new era in the club's history.

Atlanta United part ways with Head Coach Ronny Deila

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) October 19, 2025

Deila joined Atlanta United after departing Al Wahda in Abu Dhabi last December. His team recently concluded their season with a 1-1 draw against DC United.

The draw against Eastern Conference bottom-dwellers DC United allowed Atlanta United to avoid finishing at the bottom of the table.

Saba Lobjanidze scored for Atlanta United, while Gabriel Pirani equalized for DC United in the 66th minute.

“It was evident that our standard of play was not met this season, and together with our senior leadership team, we have decided that it was in Atlanta United's best interest to move the team in a different direction,” team chief executive officer and president Garth Lagerwey said.

“Ultimately, we owe our fans a much better on-field product, and it is our unwavering commitment to provide that to this community as soon as possible.”

Atlanta United's season fell far short of expectations despite the high-profile signing of midfielder Miguel Almiron from Newcastle United. The team's struggles persisted, with only one win in their final 18 matches.