Didier Drogba has admitted that it would be very difficult for Chelsea to lose Jose Mourinho.
Speculation is mounting that Mourinho will decide to walk away from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
Drogba insists he is in the dark over Mourinho's intentions, but concedes that he fears the worst.
"Jose has built a culture that has become Chelsea's," Drogba told The Sun.
"We're in love with his style of coaching and the confidence he has infused into the team.
"Losing him will be extremely painful and an unfortunate departure for the players. It's not easy losing a good friend.
"I don't know if it will happen - but if it's true, it is very sad.
"Stories keep cropping up everywhere but, hopefully, he will stay."
Chelsea have struggled on the pitch in recent weeks and are currently six points adrift of Premiership leaders Manchester United.
And Drogba maintains that the players are concentrating on their football rather than rumours about Mourinho.
"We just have to focus on our games - especially during this testing period with injuries, suspension and other setbacks," he explained.
"We're not really talking about who could be leaving the club.
"I just hope these people give us and the boss a break about this sack talk because it's not good for the team."