Fulham head coach Marco Silva is in advanced discussions to take charge at Benfica, with an agreement reportedly close. Silva’s contract at Craven Cottage is set to expire this month, and while Fulham had offered him a new three-year deal, he has not accepted it. The 48-year-old manager confirmed his departure from the London club after five years.
Discussions between Silva and Benfica have progressed significantly in recent days. Benfica is seeking a successor for Jose Mourinho, who has left the Portuguese club to become Real Madrid‘s new head coach on a three-year deal. Mourinho, 63, had a second spell at Benfica, guiding them to a third-place finish in the Primeira Liga.
Silva’s tenure at Fulham
Silva joined Fulham in July 2021, following the club’s relegation to the Championship. In his first season, he successfully guided them back to the Premier League. He had previously managed Hull City, Watford, and Everton in England.
Under Silva’s leadership, Fulham established themselves as a Premier League side. In the most recent season, they finished 11th in the top flight, level on 52 points with Chelsea, after securing a victory over Newcastle on the final day. His other Premier League seasons saw the club finish 10th, 13th, and 11th.
Fulham owner Shahid Khan acknowledged that Silva and the club were an “excellent fit” but stated that “change is inevitable in this game.” Khan also expressed confidence in Fulham‘s appeal to a new head coach, citing the squad’s talent, Craven Cottage as a historic home ground, loyal supporters, and his commitment to backing the club.
Silva’s message and future prospects
In an open letter to fans, Silva reflected on his time at Fulham, stating, “After five years, our journey together comes to an end.” He thanked the supporters for their backing, adding, “Fulham will always be in my heart, and sooner or later I will be back at Craven Cottage.”
Silva’s potential move to Benfica would offer him the opportunity to coach in Europe, as Benfica‘s third-place finish under Mourinho secured them a spot in the Europa League qualifiers. Qualifying for European competition was an achievement that eluded Silva during his time at Craven Cottage.
Fulham is now preparing to appoint a new leader, with Khan indicating that the process will be “timely but deliberate.” The club aims to find a successor who meets their standards and the expectations of their global fanbase.
Silva’s departure comes after he led Fulham to 11th in the Premier League for the second consecutive season.
