Benfica are preparing for the possibility of losing José Mourinho to Real Madrid by targeting Fulham manager Marco Silva as a replacement, according to The Guardian. Mourinho's expected move back to the Bernabéu, 13 years after his first spell, has prompted Benfica to draw up contingency plans. The Portuguese veteran took charge at the Estádio da Luz in September and has overseen a resurgence, lifting Benfica into contention for the Primeira Liga title. However, the allure of a second stint at Madrid may prove irresistible, with Real Madrid having identified him as their preferred candidate and talks reportedly positive.
Benfica do not want to lose Mourinho, but they recognize the need to act swiftly. Marco Silva, 48, has emerged as the top target. Silva, a former Sporting boss, has excelled at Fulham, securing promotion to the Premier League in 2022 and establishing the club as a solid mid-table side. His attacking philosophy and ability to develop young talent align with Benfica's tradition of nurturing players. However, Fulham's inability to break into the top half consistently may prompt Silva to seek a new challenge, especially with Benfica offering Champions League football and a chance to compete for domestic honors.
Fulham have offered Silva a new contract, but the manager is yet to commit. The club's hierarchy is aware of the interest and has prepared a competitive offer, but the prospect of managing in Europe's elite competition could sway Silva. Benfica currently sit second behind Porto, and Silva would be tasked with closing that gap while making an impact in the Champions League.
Chelsea also have Silva on their shortlist as they search for a replacement for Liam Rosenior. However, the Blues regard Xabi Alonso as their ideal candidate. Alonso, who led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2024, has been out of work since his dismissal by Real Madrid this season. He is believed to favor a move to England, and Chelsea have monitored him for years. Liverpool may also enter the race if they part ways with Arne Slot. Chelsea's interest in Silva is part of a broader search for a manager who can impose a clear style and navigate the pressure at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have made inquiries about Andoni Iraola, who is leaving Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace are interested in Iraola as they lose Oliver Glasner. Chelsea are monitoring Glasner and have looked at former left-back Filipe Luís, who is awaiting his next role after leaving Flamengo. Luís was considered before Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca in January. The Blues are prepared to wait until the season ends before making an appointment.
The managerial carousel highlights the fluid summer ahead. For Benfica, losing Mourinho would be a blow both tactically and in terms of leadership, but Silva's Premier League experience and Portuguese roots make him a strong fit. Fulham face a battle to keep their manager, while Chelsea's search for a new boss could have ripple effects across Europe. Silva's decision will be crucial, and Benfica are reportedly ready to move quickly if Mourinho's exit is confirmed.
As negotiations unfold, the coming weeks will determine the fate of several high-profile managers. The domino effect of Mourinho's potential move could reshape the coaching landscape in England and Portugal. Based on reporting from The Guardian.
