Percy Tau’s trophy-laden career leaves him without a club at 32

Percy Tau, the most decorated South African footballer of his generation, is without a club after being released by Vietnamese side Thep Xanh Nam Dinh FC in May 2026.

The 32-year-old has won 20 team honours and 10 individual awards during a career that has taken him to four countries, yet he remains without a new employer.

Tau’s achievements include league titles in South Africa, Belgium and Egypt, three CAF Champions League victories, two CAF Super Cup successes and the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup 2024.

His individual honours include CAF Inter-Club Player of the Year 2023, the PSL Footballer of the Season award for 2017/18 and the PSL Golden Boot in the same campaign.

He has also played in the Premier League for Brighton & Hove Albion and enjoyed major success in Africa with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly.

Despite that record, no Betway Premiership club or international side has yet stepped forward with a deal, prompting questions about why a player with Tau’s experience remains on the sidelines.

Salary and age among possible factors

Tau is understood to have earned comparatively high salaries during his time at previous clubs. However, he said on Robert Marawa’s show on 947 that he would approach any negotiations realistically.

“I am very reasonable when it comes to contract dealings. I am not going to ask for something I know a club is not going to offer me,” Tau said.

When asked about a hypothetical offer from Kaizer Chiefs worth R450,000 per month on a two-year contract with an option, Tau replied: “Perfect.”

He said he remained open to proposals from any club, including Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch.

“I will listen if there are offers, I’m not ruling out anyone. There’s a lot to take in, to consider. You have to consider age, how long the contract is and then family,” Tau explained.

“But I’ll listen to anybody. Let’s not rule out Orlando Pirates or even Stellenbosch. I will not rule out anyone. But my decision will be based on who gives me a contract because at the end of the day I still have to support my family.”

Age could be part of the equation, with a 32-year-old representing a shorter-term investment than players in their early twenties. South African clubs may also be placing greater emphasis on youth development.

Financial considerations could be equally important. A salary of R450,000 per month would make Tau one of the highest-paid players in the Betway Premiership, potentially affecting clubs’ existing wage structures.

Yet his record of success with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly offers experience, leadership and proven quality, while his professional reputation has remained free of controversy and scandal.

Tau’s achievements may have raised expectations around what he can deliver, or clubs may be increasingly guided by data analysis and resale value rather than past honours. For now, despite a decorated career, the “Lion of Judah” is waiting for his next opportunity.