Marco Silva faced competition as Benfica weighed three other candidates | OneFootball

Marco Silva is close to being confirmed as Benfica’s new head coach, with an announcement expected once José Mourinho’s exit to Real Madrid is formalised. He is already involved in planning for the 2026/27 season.

O Jogo reports that Andoni Iraola was among the alternatives assessed, having led Bournemouth to a historic Premier League campaign before choosing Liverpool.

The former Fulham manager is set to sign a two-year deal with an option for a third, becoming Rui Costa’s leading pick to start a new cycle and ending the search.

Rúben Amorim was also considered for the role. He signalled publicly that he did not intend to return to Portuguese football at this stage.

Benfica analysed further international options in case Fulham’s renewal proposal kept Silva in England. Vincenzo Italiano, previously of Bologna, was on the list before his move to Besiktas.

With Silva aligned to take charge, Benfica are preparing to launch a new era once the appointment is made official.

Source: Glorioso 1904