Marco Silva appointed Benfica coach as Mourinho heads to Real Madrid

Marco Silva has agreed to become the new head coach of Benfica. The Portuguese club also confirmed Jose Mourinho's departure to Real Madrid. Silva, 48, ended his five‑year spell as Fulham manager when his contract expired at Craven Cottage. Benfica said the agreement includes a contract running to the end of the 2027‑28 season, with an option to extend to 2028‑29. Fulham was Silva's fourth English club, following tenures at Hull City, Watford and Everton. Both Silva and Mourinho previously played for Portuguese sides Belenenses and Rio Ave. Mourinho's exit from Estadio da Luz was announced alongside a £13 million (approximately €15 million) compensation payment from Real Madrid. Benfica added that Mourinho has agreed to the move back to the Bernabeu. Mourinho took charge of Benfica in September and guided the team to third place in the Primeira Liga while remaining unbeaten. During his earlier spell at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, he won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.