Marco Silva has confirmed his departure from Fulham after five years at the helm, with the Portuguese coach close to finalizing a deal to take over at Benfica. His contract runs out at the end of June, and Fulham had offered him a new three-year deal to stay. Silva chose instead to pursue a return to Portuguese football.

Appointed in 2021 with Fulham still in the Championship, Silva delivered immediate promotion and then stabilized the club as a consistent Premier League outfit. His previous English managerial stints included Hull City, Watford, and Everton. Despite prolonged uncertainty during the final months of the campaign, he kept the squad focused and competitive through the run-in.

Fulham closed the season with a victory over Newcastle on the final day, sealing 11th place in the Premier League table. Across his top-flight tenure, Silva guided the Cottagers to finishes of 10th, 13th, and 11th — respectable mid-table security for a club that had bounced between divisions before his arrival.

In an open letter to supporters, Silva wrote: "After five years, our journey together comes to an end." He thanked fans for their unwavering backing and added that Fulham will always remain in his heart, promising to return to Craven Cottage someday. Fulham now face the task of replacing a manager who restored their top-flight status.