Marco Silva will leave Fulham after five years in charge, with reports indicating the Portuguese coach is set to become the new Benfica manager.
The 48-year-old has been heavily linked with a return to his homeland in recent weeks, with reports that Benfica are expected to appoint Silva after reaching an agreement for him to leave Craven Cottage.
Silva departs after overseeing one of the most successful periods in Fulham’s recent history.
Since arriving in 2021, he guided the club back to the Premier League by winning the Championship title and established them as a consistent top-flight side, earning widespread praise for both results and style of play.
Benfica target long-term successor
Reports suggest Benfica identified Silva as their preferred candidate after reportedly deciding to make a change in the dugout ahead of next season, as Jose Mourinho is heavily linked with a return to Real Madrid.
The move would see Silva return to Portuguese football for the first time since managing Sporting CP more than a decade ago.
Benfica are believed to view his experience in English football and his track record of developing competitive teams as key reasons behind their pursuit.
Although neither Silva nor Benfica directly addressed the links in Fulham’s official announcement, his departure is expected to clear the way for the move to be completed.
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Silva reflects on successful Fulham spell
During his time in charge, Silva led Fulham to promotion from the Championship and helped the club secure several comfortable Premier League finishes.
Under his leadership, Fulham earned a reputation for playing attractive football while competing consistently against some of England’s biggest clubs.
Following confirmation of his departure, Silva paid tribute to the supporters who backed him throughout his time in west London.
He said: “To our fans – I asked you, from day one, to always be with us. And that’s what you did these past five years. We achieved a lot together.
“My staff and I always felt your support. It will never be forgotten. Fulham will always be in my heart, and sooner or later I will be back at Craven Cottage.”
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Fulham already planning for next head coach
Fulham owner Shahid Khan confirmed that preparations have already been made for Silva’s departure, with the club now beginning the search for a new manager.
Khan praised Silva’s contribution and expressed confidence that Fulham remain an attractive destination for potential candidates.
He said: “Marco Silva leaves our club with my gratitude and best wishes. Fulham and Marco were an excellent fit for five seasons, but change is inevitable in this game, and we’ve accordingly prepared for this moment.
“The talent in our squad, our historic home ground of Craven Cottage, our faithful supporters, and my commitment to backing the club, all make Fulham an extraordinarily attractive destination for an incoming head coach.
“We will soon appoint a new leader in a timely but deliberate manner, who will meet the standards of our club and expectations of our fans throughout the world.”
While Silva’s exit marks the end of a memorable chapter, Fulham will now turn their attention to finding the right successor as they look to continue their progress in the Premier League.
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