Fulham boss Marco Silva set for new job after Chelsea snub

Manager Marco Silva is set to leave Fulham when his contract expires this summer.

He was considered for the Chelsea job, but they appointed Xabi Alonso.

Silva has now reached an agreement with Portuguese giants Benfica to become their new manager.

He is set to replace Jose Mourinho, who is returning to Real Madrid. Benfica will announce his appointment in the coming days.

Silva had prioritised a return to his native country after a successful five-year stay at Fulham.

Silva leaves a huge void at Fulham

The Portuguese helped Fulham return to the Premier League in his debut season after winning the Championship.

He has helped the Cottagers become a mainstay in the top flight. They have not finished below 13th since their promotion in 2021.

Silva guided Fulham to their first-ever League Cup semi-final in 2022/23, where they lost 3-2 on aggregate to Liverpool.

The 48-year-old also helped Fulham record their highest-ever points tally in the top-flight last season, collecting 54 points as they finished 11th.

Fulham are on course to finish this season with 52 points despite little activity in the transfer window – underlining the incredible job Silva has done.

The Cottagers must ensure they appoint the ideal replacement for him to prevent the club from regressing after his departure.

Moving to Benfica allows Silva to prove himself at one of Europe’s big clubs. He could return to the Premier League if he succeeds with the Portuguese giants.