Marco Silva agrees to replace Jose Mourinho at Benfica

Marco Silva has reached a verbal agreement to become the new manager of Benfica, succeeding Jose Mourinho as he departs for Real Madrid.

The move comes despite a concerted effort by Fulham to retain their manager. The London club reportedly offered a three-year deal worth £8 million per year, but Silva has opted for a return to his homeland, accepting a deal worth approximately £4 million annually. Reports indicate the manager is already preparing for the transition by building a home near Lisbon.

For Fulham, this marks the end of a successful tenure. Since joining in July 2021, Silva guided the club back to the Premier League, established them in the top flight, and achieved a record 54-point campaign in 2024-25, alongside a Carabao Cup semi-final appearance.

A return to Portugal would see Silva manage in the Primeira Liga for the first time in 11 years.

Meanwhile, Mourinho moves to Madrid during a period of significant instability for the Spanish giants. Following the exits of Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso, and the resignation of caretaker Alvaro Arbeloa, Mourinho is expected to lead the club through its current crisis.

Looking ahead, Silva’s immediate priority at Benfica will be navigating the Europa League second qualifying round. Fulham, conversely, must now launch an urgent search for a successor before the pre-season begins.