Premier League – Marco Silva leaves Fulham amid ties with Benfica as Mourinho’s replacement

Fulham manager Marco Silva has announced he will leave the Premier League club, amid reports he will take charge of Portuguese side Benfica.

Silva is said to have started talks with Benfica about replacing Jose Mourinho, who has been lined up for a second spell at Real Madrid.

The 48-year-old, whose contract expires in June, has not revealed his next destination but will leave Craven Cottage “this summer”.

Silva’s five-year reign at Fulham had made him the third longest-serving boss in the Premier League.

In an open letter to Fulham supporters, the Portuguese coach said: «To our fans, I have asked you from day one to always be with us. And that is what you have done over the past five years. We have achieved a lot together.»

«My staff and I have 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.»

Fulham owner Shahid Khan said the club will “appoint a new leader in a timely but considered manner, who will meet the standards of our club and the expectations of our fans around the world”.

Having previously managed Everton’s local rivals Sporting Lisbon, Watford, Hull, Olympiacos and Benfica, Silva made an immediate impact in west London.

He guided Fulham to the Championship title in 2021/22, sealing promotion to the Premier League.

Silva then secured a top half place the following season before steering Fulham to a record Premier League points tally of 54 in 2025.

Fulham also reached the semi-finals of the League Cup in 2024 for the first time in its history.

The Cottagers finished eleventh in the Premier League this season, missing out on European qualification, while Benfica finished third in the Portuguese top flight under Mourinho.

«Marco Silva leaves our club with my gratitude and best wishes. Fulham and Marco had an excellent match for five seasons, but change is inevitable in this match and we have therefore prepared for this moment,» Khan said.

“The talent in our squad, our historic home of Craven Cottage, our loyal supporters and my commitment to supporting the club make Fulham an extremely attractive destination for a new head coach.”

Published on June 2, 2026