<p>The Portuguese coach turned down fresh terms from the Cottagers, meaning his five-year tenure in West London will come to an end.</p><p>In turn, Silva, 48, has been linked with the Benfica post as they look to replace Jose Mourinho, who is poised to return to Real Madrid.</p><p><strong>"To our fans - I asked you, from day one, to always be with us," </strong>Silva said. <strong>"And that's what you did these past five years. We achieved a lot together.</strong></p><p><strong>"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."</strong></p><p>Appointed in 2021, Silva won the Championship in his first season in charge of the club.</p><p>He then helped Fulham establish themselves as a stable Premier League side with 10th, 13th and two 11th-place finishes.</p><p>Fulham owner Shahid Khan added: <strong>"Marco Silva leaves our club with my gratitude and best wishes.</strong></p><p><strong>"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."</strong></p>