Marco Silva is expected to join Benfica after his departure from Fulham was confirmed.

Silva spent five years at Fulham, guiding them back into the Premier League following their relegation under Scott Parker in 2020-21.

Under Silva's tutelage, Fulham finished 10th, 13th, 11th and 11th in the top tier across the past four seasons, achieving their Premier League record points tally of 54 in 2024-25.

However, the former Everton and Watford boss has now left Craven Cottage, and he seems set to replace Real Madrid-bound Jose Mourinho at Benfica.

"After five years, our journey together comes to an end," said Silva in an open letter to fans.

"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."

Silva previously coached Benfica's rivals Sporting CP.

His 38.2% win percentage in the Premier League is the best of any Fulham boss, while he leaves having also won the most matches (58) and managed the joint-most matches for the Cottagers in the competition (152 – level with Chris Coleman).