Tau’s coach backs him as he joins Al Ahly
MAMELODI Sundowns co-coach Rhulani Mokwena has all but confirmed that Percy Tau will be leaving English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion to join Egyptian giants Al Ahly, where he will reunite with Pitso Mosimane.
Social media was abuzz yesterday after Tau was pictured in the colours of Al Ahly.
“I have my opinion on the matter. I am privileged that I have first-hand access to Percy Tau and I am humbled that before making the decision, he did give me a call about two or three weeks ago,” said Mokwena.
“Percy knows my opinion on this matter and our discussion was an emotional, two-hour conversation between father and son. I know Percy’s feelings about where his career is and what he would like to do.
“I know his idea of what he would like to achieve in football, but I think he knows my feelings on this issue and some of the things we keep behind closed doors because they are extremely sensitive.
“There are things that are said because there is mutual affection and trust, and Percy has my support regardless of whatever decision he makes and he knows that.”
Tau’s departure from Brighton is hardly surprising. After being recalled from his loan spell with Anderlecht in January and re-integrated into the Brighton first team, he was only used sparingly by coach Graham Potter last season as the Seagulls preferred Neal Maupay and Leandro Trossard over the South African.
Tau was a key player for Sundowns and it is likely that he will play a big role for Al Ahly next season as the Red Devils look to defend their Caf Champions League crown while also trying to win the Egyptian Premier League, which was won by Zamalek last season.
The news will also be welcome news to Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. Tau will be a key part of the Bafana rebuilding process under the guidance of the Belgian. The SA national team coach would rather have the player joining a club where he is likely to play regularly.