Marco Silva to leave Fulham after five years as boss amid Benfica links

By Rachel Steinberg, Press Association

Marco Silva is leaving Fulham after five years as head coach, the club have announced.

The 48-year-old, who is departing Craven Cottage “this summer”, has not revealed his next destination, but Silva has been heavily linked with Portuguese giants Benfica.

His five-year tenure had made Silva the third longest serving boss in the Premier League, and fifth longest in the top four divisions.

In an open letter to Fulham supporters, Silva said: “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.”