Marco Silva to leave Fulham during close season after five year tenure

The Portuguese coach declined a new contract from the Cottagers, bringing his five year spell in West London to an end.

Silva, aged 48, has been linked with the Benfica job as they seek a replacement for Jose Mourinho, who is set to return to Real Madrid.

"To our fans, I asked you, from day one, to always be with us," Silva said. "And that is exactly what you did these past five years. We accomplished a lot together.

"My staff and I always felt your backing. It will never be forgotten. Fulham will always be in my heart, and sooner or later I will return to Craven Cottage."

Hired in 2021, Silva secured the Championship title in his first season in charge.

He then helped Fulham cement their place as a stable Premier League outfit with finishes of 10th, 13th and two 11th place results.

Fulham owner Shahid Khan added: "Marco Silva departs our club with my gratitude and best wishes.

"Fulham and Marco were an excellent match for five seasons, but change is inevitable in this sport, and we have accordingly prepared for this moment."