Marco Silva, who has been linked with replacing Jose Mourinho at Benfica, has announced he will leave Fulham after five years as an open letter to fans has been published
Fulham manager Marco SIlva has quit Craven Cottage with rumours he will take up a ‘top job’ with an open letter penned to fans.
Silva, who has been at Fulham for five years, has been heavily linked with replacing Jose Mourinho at Portuguese giants Benfica.
The 48-year-old was the third longest serving boss in the Premier League, and fifth longest in the top four divisions.
In an open letter to the supporters, Silva said: “After five years, our journey together comes to an end. I leave with a feeling I was told when I first arrived – that Fulham Football Club is a family.
“Thanks to Mr Khan, Tony and Alistair for their support and, above all, for the relationship we built. Thank you for the great work of all the Club staff members behind the scenes. The players will be left with great memories and moments that we shared together through our hard work.
“Last, but not least, 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.
“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.”
During his time at Fulham, Silva led the club to break their record Premier League points tally when the team finished on 54 in 2025.
Silva also led Fulham to four Quarter-Finals in domestic cup competitions and a first ever Carabao Cup Semi-Finals appearance.
Silva did not confirm he was heading to Benfica or give any indication of his future plans.
Meanwhile, Fulham owner Shahid Khan thanked Silva for his time at the club and said they have “accordingly prepared for this moment”.
In a statement to fans, Khan said: “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.
“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.”