Benfica they confirmed the appointment Marko Silva as their new head coach after leaving Jose Mourinhowho should return to Real Madrid.
The Portuguese giants have announced that Silva has agreed to take over the club, with reports suggesting he will sign until the end of the 2027-28 season, with an option for an additional year.
The appointment comes shortly after Silva’s five-year spell at Fulham ended, paving the way for his return to Portuguese football.
Benfica confirmed Mourinho’s departure
Silva’s arrival follows the departure of Mourinho, who left Benfica after Real Madrid activated the €15m release clause in his contract.
Benfica said in a statement: “Real Madrid CF has formalized its intention to hire coach José Mourinho for €15,000,000, corresponding to the termination clause of his current sports contract, and the coach has given his consent to this engagement.”
The club added: “This is how José Mourinho’s second spell as manager of professional football team SL Benfica ended. Sport Lisboa e Benfica wishes José Mourinho all the best.”
Mourinho is leaving after a short tenure in charge, having guided Benfica to third place in the Primeira Liga. His team finished the league campaign unbeaten, although they failed to win the title.
The 63-year-old now returns to Real Madrid, where he previously enjoyed success between 2010 and 2013, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
Silva returns to Portugal
Silva arrives in Lisbon with rich managerial experience gained in Portugal and abroad.
The 48-year-old previously managed Estoril Praia, Sporting CP and Olympiacos before moving to England, where he managed Hull City, Watford, Everton and Fulham.
His most notable achievement in Portugal came during his time at Sporting, where he won the Portuguese Cup in the 2014-15 season.
Benfica president Rui Costa hopes Silva can bring stability to the club after a series of managerial changes in recent years.
