Wayne Rooney won’t even be involved in Sunday’s Premier League clash between Manchester United and Chelsea, but that hasn’t stopped the England striker being the hot topic in the build-up to the game.
The 28-year-old is still recovering from a groin injury which will keep him out of the Stamford Bridge game, as United target a victory to get themselves back in the title race.
And Mourinho and Moyes have both been drawn into a war of words regarding Rooney, who was a transfer target of Chelsea’s last summer.
Mourinho believes Rooney will move abroad.
Mourinho began the debate by suggesting that should Rooney move on in the future, it will most likely be to an overseas club with the former Everton star's current Old Trafford contract due to end in 2015.
"Manchester United made it clear in the summer they don't swap or sell players to their direct rivals,” said the Portuguese.
"They were clear in the way they approached the Rooney situation. For them, it's pretty clear - they don't swap and they don't sell.
"I think maybe this summer they will try to sell to a non-direct rival, they were very clear."
But Moyes wouldn’t be drawn on any speculation in response regarding Rooney, who is approaching ten years with United and is their top scorer so far this season with 11 goals.
Moyes wouldn't be drawn into speculation on Rooney.
"I don't talk about players at other clubs, it's not my style," responded Moyes.
"Only time will tell and give you the answer [about Rooney], but I completely disagree. I can only tell you I disagree.
"The club do the right things, there is no doubt about that. We'll make sure we do the things we need to do."
United travel to west London in seventh spot in the Premier League table, nine points behind third placed Chelsea.
