Unai Emery reaffirms Aston Villa commitment after week of upheaval

The manager, quite literally, laughed off speculation he might be about to walk out on the club following a winless start to the season.

Recruitment chief Monchi has been replaced by Roberto Olabe as Villa's president of football operations, while reports in the Spanish press claimed even Emery himself had considered quitting

But speaking ahead of Thursday's Europa League opener with Bologna, the boss insisted it is very much business as usual.

Asked about the recent speculation, he laughed: “More speculation! But I know it’s different speculation.

“The reality is that in the league we are not performing well.

“I had meetings after the match on Monday, we are speaking openly about how we build a team.

“Our commitment to everything is towards tomorrow in the Europa League, it’s exciting to be back in Europe.”

Emery described Monchi's exit as a mutual decision and believes the appointment of Olabe, who he has known for 30 years, will ensure a smooth transition.

“It was something we were working on, knowing about while speaking with Monchi,” he said.

“After the transfer window had finished we were speaking about our relationship here, working with the club and working together.

“Then, we decided with the club and him, and with Roberto as well, we decided to do a normal transition. That’s changed nothing, other than the man.”

Olabe, who spent seven years as Real Sociedad sporting director before leaving in the summer, has begun work at Villa with immediate effect.

Emery said: “He (Monchi) was very good, but after two years he needed to have another chapter in his career.

“Mutual agreement with the club. I wish him the best with his new chapter.

“We reacted quickly to get one person who I know personally. I have a lot of confidence with Roberto Olabe and he is going to help us.”