Marco Silva departs Fulham after five years, reportedly to manage Benfica

Portuguese manager Marco Silva has departed from his role at English Premier League club Fulham after a five-year tenure. The club announced Silva's departure via social media on Tuesday.

Silva, 48, initially joined Fulham in 2021. His entry into English football began earlier, in January 2017, when he took charge of the then-struggling Hull City. Reports from Goal.com suggest that Silva is set to become the new manager of Benfica in Portugal, a move that comes as the club seeks a new leader, with José Mourinho reportedly heading to Real Madrid.

During his time at Fulham, Silva also managed Watford and Everton. His most recent season saw Fulham secure an eleventh-place finish in the Premier League with 52 points, just one point shy of qualifying for a European competition. This performance marks a solid conclusion to his tenure, leaving the club in a stable position.

The departure opens a new chapter for both Silva and Fulham. While Silva returns to manage in his native country, Fulham will now begin its search for a new head coach to lead the team forward.