Marco Silva to leave Fulham amid talks with Benfica

Fulham manager Marco Silva has confirmed that he will step down from his position after five years at the helm. The 48-year-old is reportedly close to finalizing an agreement to take over at Portuguese giants Benfica.

Silva's current contract was set to expire at the end of June. Despite receiving an offer for a new three-year deal from the London club, the Portuguese tactician has opted to move on following the conclusion of the season.

Appointed in 2021, Silva guided the Cottagers to promotion from the Championship during his debut campaign. He subsequently established the club as a consistent Premier League side, with their most recent campaign ending in an 11th-placed finish following a final-day victory over Newcastle United.

The departure marks the end of a transformative era for the club, which saw them secure 10th, 13th, and 11th-placed finishes in the top flight under his guidance. For Benfica, securing a manager with extensive experience in the English game—having previously managed Hull City, Watford, and Everton—represents a significant coaching appointment.