Benfica have confirmed the departure of Jose Mourinho as coach to take over at Real Madrid, with Marco Silva confirmed as his replacement at the Portuguese club.
Mourinho is set to be announced as Real Madrid coach for the second time, 13 years after ending a three-year spell between 2010 and 2013 that saw him win the Spanish League and Copa del Rey titles.
Since then, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham in the Premier League, before taking on Roma, Galatasaray and Benfica as it looked as if his days managing big clubs might be over – but the 63-year-old is now back in one of the biggest jobs in football.
A statement issued by Benfica read: “Benfica has informed SAD CMVM that Real Madrid has officially expressed its intention to sign Jose Mourinho for a sum of 15 million euros, after the coach gave his approval.”
“Thank you, Jose Mourinho.”
Real Madrid parted ways with Alvaro Arbeloa earlier on Tuesday night, paving the way for Mourinho to return to the Bernabéu.
Real Madrid have not officially announced the appointment themselves, but recently re-elected president Florentino Pérez has insisted that the Portuguese coach will be appointed if another vote is held.
Silva has been confirmed as Benfica coach
Benfica moved quickly to announce a replacement, as Silva took over as coach at the Stadium of Light on a two-year contract after his departure from English Premier League team Fulham at the end of the season.
Confirming Silva’s appointment, the Portuguese team added: “SAD announces that it has reached an agreement with Marco Silva to sign a work contract valid for two seasons, extendable until 2028/29.”
Silva enjoyed a successful spell at Craven Cottage, leaving as one of their most successful managers after leading them to the Premier League before becoming a mainstay in the Championship.
The Portuguese coach also took charge of Hull, Watford and Everton in England, in addition to Benfica’s rival, Sporting Lisbon.
