Benfica have confirmed Jose Mourinho’s departure as manager 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’s boss for the second time, 13 years after ending a three-year spell between 2010 and 2013 which saw him win a LaLiga and Copa Del Rey title.
Since then, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham in the Premier League, before spells with Roma, Galatasaray and Benfica as it looked like his days managing eite clubs could be over – but the 63-year-old is now back in one of the biggest jobs in football.
A statement from Benfica said: “Benfica SAD has informed the CMVM that Real Madrid CF has formally expressed its intention to hire Jose Mourinho for the amount of 15 million euros, with the coach having given his agreement.
“Thank you, José Mourinho.”
Real parted ways with Alvaro Arbeloa earlier on Tuesday night, paving the way for Mourinho to return to the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid are yet to formally announce the appointment themselves, but recently re-elected president Florentino Perez insisted the Portuguese boss would be appointed if he was voted back in.
Silva confirmed as Benfica boss
Benfica have acted quickly to announce a replacement, with Silva taking over at the Stadium of Light on a two-year contract following his departure from Premier League side Fulham at the end of the season.
Confirming Silva’s appointment, the Portuguese outfit added: “SAD announcest hat it has reached an agreement with Marco Silva for the signing of an employment contract valid for two seasons, extendable until 2028/29.”
Silva enjoyed a successful tenure in charge at Craven Cottage, leaving as one of their most successful managers after guiding them to the Premier League before establishing them as a top-flight mainstay.
The Portuguese manager has also taken charge of Hull, Watford and Everton in England, as well as Benfica’s rivals Sporting CP.
