Percy Tau’s Future Uncertain as He Weighs Options After Qatar SC Exit

After spending three-and-a-half years with Egyptian giants Al Ahly before making a short-lived switch to Qatar SC in January, Percy Tau now finds himself at a career crossroads as he weighs up his next move.

The 31-year-old attacker is currently a free agent following the end of his contract in Qatar. However, the financial terms surrounding his next deal will play a critical role in determining where he lands next. Sources indicate that Tau and his representatives are targeting a personal package worth around USD1 million per annum (approximately R17.7 million).

Such a high salary expectation could limit his options, especially given his modest output last season, where he managed just three goals. Clubs in the Middle East remain the most likely destination, as teams in the Gulf region tend to offer financial packages closer to Tau’s demands.

There has been widespread speculation linking Tau with a possible return to Egypt, this time with Zamalek. However, insiders suggest that Tau is not Zamalek’s first-choice target at the moment. The Egyptian club’s interest in the South African star will only become concrete if winger Ahmed Jafeli secures a loan move away.

Currently, Zamalek’s foreign player quota is tight. The club already has Moroccan defensive duo Bentayg Mahmoud and Moussadak Salah on their books, while Tunisian right-back Hamza Mathlouthi has departed. Should Jafeli and fellow Tunisian forward Seifeddine Jaziri leave on loan as expected, Zamalek will free up three foreign slots—two for wingers and one for a striker—creating space for potential signings like Tau.

Another factor complicating Zamalek’s transfer plans is the coaching situation. The club is awaiting the arrival of a new head coach following the imminent departure of interim boss Ayman El Ramadi, who was brought in on a short-term basis after Jose Peseiro’s exit. Until a new manager is appointed, transfer decisions, including any move for Tau, are on hold.

Meanwhile, other options in the UAE Pro League and Saudi Arabia’s Second Division are reportedly being explored. But securing a deal that matches Tau’s financial expectations will not be easy, especially given the tight budgets at some clubs in those leagues.

If Tau considers returning home to South Africa, he would likely need to accept a significant pay cut. Current estimates suggest he would have to settle for a gross package of around half of his current asking price.

With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fast approaching—scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco—securing game time at club level is becoming a priority for the Bafana Bafana international. His handlers are now carefully weighing all offers in hopes of securing a deal that balances both competitive football and financial reward.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will remain on where Percy Tau’s next chapter will unfold.