Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new manager at Stamford Bridge, set to take over on July 1, 2026.The Blues made the announcement on the club's website and social media, describing him as "one of the most respected figures in the modern club".On the club's X, Chelsea wrote: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the Men's Team. "The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge. Welcome to Chelsea, Xabi!"TRENDINGStoriesVideosYour SayThe 44-year-old had great success when managing Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, leading the Bundesliga side to its first-ever league title.Leverkusen went undefeated in that campaign, which saw him secure a move to Real Madrid.However, after seven months and a reported breakdown in player relationships, Alonso left the Spanish giants, now completing his move to West London.Chelsea were full of praise for their new boss, describing him as a "proven leader and partner across several areas essential to the demands of driving the team".LATEST SPORTS NEWSXabi Alonso sends message to Chelsea fans after being announced as new Blues managerMan City star Antoine Semenyo scores sensational FA Cup winner as Chelsea land horror recordUpdate on Manchester City's 130 charges case as timeframe emerges on long-awaited decisionAlonso sent a message to Chelsea fans with the appointment, saying: "Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football, and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club."From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition."We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies."There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club, and it will be my great honour to lead it."Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies."Chelsea described the appointment as a "hallmark of the club's history and future", saying it "reflects the club's belief in his broad set of experiences, coaching quality and game model, leadership attributes, character and integrity".The appointment offers stability at Stamford Bridge, having suffered a very rocky spell since the start of spring.With the sackings of both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, Calum McFarlane oversaw half a dozen games, including their FA Cup final defeat yesterday to Manchester City.The timing of the announcement is key as Chelsea looks to turn a page on that loss and set their sights on next season.It is unclear whether Alonso will be unveiled to the Blues' fans on Tuesday night in Chelsea's last home game of the season against bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur.But the news will be welcomed by supporters, with one of the most sought-after managers putting pen to paper at Stamford Bridge.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

The agency added that the outbreak, with around 246 cases and 80 deaths, does not meet the criteria of pandemic emergency.

Women diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder discuss how it impacts their lives.

Hersheypark could face disruptions ahead of its busy summer season as union maintenance workers weigh whether to authorize a strike.The Pennsylvania theme park is scheduled to begin daily operations on May 21, transitioning from its current weekends-only schedule as families prepare for their long-awaited summer vacations.Uncertainty has emerged, however, just days before the expanded opening schedule after more than 200 unionized maintenance employees rejected what Hershey Entertainment & Resorts described as its "last, best and final" contract offer following months of negotiations, according to NJ.com.VIRAL MASK BAN AT AMUSEMENT PARK ABRUPTLY REVERSED AFTER FIERCE BACKLASH ONLINEThe workers include ride mechanics, electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC technicians and other employees responsible for maintaining rides and facilities throughout Hersheyparks resort properties, the outlet noted.The possible labor action has raised concerns about how the park could operate during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, particularly as schools begin letting out for summer break.Fox News Digital reached out to the park for comment.Despite the ongoing negotiations, Hersheypark said it still plans to open on time.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER"Hersheypark is preparing to open for the 2026 summer season as scheduled on May 21," a representative for the park told NJ.com.The company added that it remains engaged in negotiations while continuing preparations for the summer opening.Hersheys Boardwalk water park, which is set to open May 23, could also be impacted if a strike moves forward.CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIESThe maintenance employees involved play a major role in daily park operations, particularly when it comes to ride safety, repairs and facility upkeep ahead of peak summer crowds, according to multiple outlets.TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZHersheypark is one of Pennsylvanias largest tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year from across the Northeast.The theme park is known for its roller coasters, family rides, live entertainment and water attractions making summer one of its most important operating periods.It remains unclear at this time whether union workers will authorize a strike or whether both sides will reach an agreement before the season officially begins.

Elsewhere around the league, Hapoel Tel Aviv edged Hapoel Petah Tikva 1-0 thanks to Mor Buskilas 74th-minute winner, clinching European qualification for next season.

34. Spieltag: Anpfiff des Spiels ist am 17.05.2026 um 15:30 Uhr. Hertha BSC spielt in Bielefeld.[mehr]

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4 jours aprs sa sortie sur la plateforme Netflix, le documentaire sur la grve des Bleus Knysna continue de faire parler et d'ouvrir de multiples dbats. Cette production met en avant notamment un niveau de haine de toutes les parties qui conduit se dire que le ver tait dj dans le fruit. Si on n'est pas oblig d'aimer ces joueurs - selon la formule souvent utilise - est-ce que le versant inverse est tenable ?