Fulham have confirmed that head coach Marco Silva will leave the club this summer, ending a successful five-year spell that helped transform the West London side into an established Premier League outfit.
The Portuguese tactician departs at the end of his contract in June, with reports linking him to Portuguese giants Benfica. His exit signals the beginning of a new chapter for Fulham and could have a significant impact on Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, two players who thrived under his leadership.
Iwobi remained an important figure throughout the 2025/26 season. The Nigerian midfielder made 29 Premier League appearances, scoring four goals, and creating three assists.
Bassey also enjoyed another strong campaign, cementing his place as Fulham’s first-choice left-sided centre-back after overcoming a difficult period earlier in his career at Ajax.
Silva arrived at Fulham in July 2021 and immediately delivered promotion by guiding the club to the Championship title.
He then helped the club establish itself in the top flight, leading Fulham to four consecutive comfortable Premier League campaigns.
In his farewell message, Silva thanked the supporters for their backing throughout his time at Craven Cottage.
“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.”
Few Fulham players benefited more from Silva’s guidance than Iwobi and Bassey.
Silva reunited with Iwobi after previously working with him at Everton and trusted the Nigerian in multiple positions across midfield and attack. The coach consistently praised his versatility and work ethic.
Bassey also developed into one of Fulham’s most reliable defenders under Silva’s management. The Nigerian international improved his composure, positioning and distribution while becoming a key figure in the club’s defensive setup.
Fulham owner Shahid Khan acknowledged Silva’s contribution while confirming that preparations are already underway to appoint a replacement.
“Marco Silva leaves our Club with my gratitude and best wishes. Fulham and Marco were an excellent fit for five seasons, but change is inevitable in this game, and we’ve accordingly prepared for this moment.
“We will soon appoint a new leader in a timely but deliberate manner, who will meet the standards of our Club and expectations of our fans throughout the world.”
Several coaches have already been linked with the vacancy, but whoever arrives will inherit a squad containing two established Nigerian internationals in Iwobi and Bassey. The challenge will be maintaining the progress achieved under the manager who helped shape Fulham’s recent success.
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