Fulham manager Marco Silva has turned down an opportunity to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. The 46-year-old had discussions with officials from Al-Ittihad, which is owned by the country’s Public Investment Fund. Former AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli is now said to be the leading candidate for the job, following the sacking of Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo. Fulham has expressed confidence in retaining Silva despite interest from Al-Ahli, another club under PIF’s control, who made a similar offer last year. Silva has received recognition for his leadership at Fulham, guiding the team to a 13th place finish in the Premier League last season, after successfully avoiding relegation in his first two seasons in the top flight following promotion from the Championship.