Marco Silva calls it quits at Fulham; set for Benfica head coach role
With Marco Silva’s contract up at Fulham in the summer, he has decided to depart the West London club after five seasons and has chosen to head back to his native country to take up the head coaching role at Portuguese giants Benfica.
The deal comprises three years, with the option of an extra year - concluding his time in Portugal in 2029.
Silva thrived as Fulham boss, winning the 2021-22 Championship in his first season before becoming a Premier League staple throughout his tenure, finishing consistently around mid-table.
Silva: ‘I always felt your support’
"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,” Silva said, revisiting the memories he shared with Fulham fans.
"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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A new era in West London
Fulham owner Shahid Khan: "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.
A ‘new leader’ to arrive soon
"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," Khan added.
Considering Benfica’s third-place league finish, Silva will be looking to make a profound impact in the Champions League next campaign.
