Moyes Rules Out Salah Move: "The Rivalry is Too Big"

David Moyes has firmly shut the door on any notion of Everton bringing Mohamed Salah to Goodison Park, despite the Liverpool icon becoming available on a free transfer this summer.

The 34-year-old was permitted to leave Anfield after 12 months remained on his contract, ending a spell that saw him recognised as the club's fourth greatest player ever. Yet his final campaign proved far less glittering, punctuated by a public rift with manager Arne Slot and a noticeable dip in form.

Speculation has naturally circulated about where Salah might land next, with some theorising a move to a domestic rival could represent a form of payback. Everton, as the other major force on Merseyside, would certainly fit that bill—and make for extraordinary headlines.

When pressed on the subject during an appearance on Egyptian television station ON Sport, however, Moyes was unambiguous in his response.

"No, no. Not possible," the Everton boss stated. "The rivalry is too big. Mohamed Salah's meaning to Liverpool is too big, so that would be impossible."

The numbers underline just how significant Salah's contribution to Liverpool proved. He scored nine times against Everton alone, putting him joint-top in Merseyside derbies during the Premier League era alongside Steven Gerrard, and accumulated 257 goals across his time at the club.

Yet Moyes, whilst acknowledging the quality Salah brought to Anfield, made little secret of Everton's collective relief at his departure.

"I am not a specialist on Mo Salah because my team is Everton and we are fierce competitors," he explained. "But I think all Evertonians were glad to see the back of Mo because he has been so good over the years. He's been a great goalscorer, a good player and he has been enjoyed by the Liverpool supporters.

"So I think we are all glad to see that Mo is leaving Liverpool. I am sure it won't be the end for him. But the performances during his career at Liverpool have been exceptional."

With Salah still without a club, one thing now appears certain: his next destination will not be across Stanley Park.