Benfica are preparing to target Fulham manager Marco Silva as their next head coach should José Mourinho depart for Real Madrid. The Portuguese giants are bracing for Mourinho's expected return to the Bernabéu, with talks already underway between the former Chelsea and Manchester United boss and the Spanish club.
Mourinho's Potential Exit
Mourinho, 63, took charge at Benfica last September and has impressed, but Real Madrid view him as their preferred candidate to replace their current manager. Negotiations have progressed, and a second stint in Madrid—13 years after his first ended—appears increasingly likely. Benfica are reluctant to lose him but are drawing up contingency plans.
Silva's Situation at Fulham
Fulham have offered Silva a new contract in a bid to retain his services, but the 48-year-old has yet to commit. Since guiding the Cottagers to promotion in 2022, Silva has established them in the Premier League, though they have fallen short of European qualification. A move to Benfica, currently second in the Primeira Liga behind Porto, would offer him Champions League football—a significant lure.
Silva's stock remains high in England, with Chelsea also monitoring him as a candidate to replace Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month. However, the Blues are prepared to wait until the season ends before making an appointment, and they view Xabi Alonso as their ideal target.
Alonso and Other Candidates
Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2024, has been out of work since his dismissal by Real Madrid this season. The Spaniard is believed to prefer his next role in England and has been on Chelsea's radar for at least three years. Liverpool have also been mentioned as a possible destination should they part ways with Arne Slot.
Chelsea have also made checks on Andoni Iraola, who is leaving Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, who is also departing his post. Iraola is a target for both clubs. Additionally, Chelsea are monitoring Glasner and have looked at former left-back Filipe Luís, who is awaiting his next opportunity after leaving Flamengo. Luís was considered before Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca in January.
