Percy Tau has broken his silence following his omission from recent South Africa national team squads, pushing back against growing calls for a full generational overhaul within Bafana Bafana.
The 31-year-old forward, once a central figure in the national setup and a continental champion with Egypt’s Al Ahly, addressed his absence in a candid interview on the #MSWon947 radio programme. Calm but unapologetic, Tau challenged what he sees as a premature dismissal of his value to the national side.
“I understand the expectations,” he acknowledged. “But just because you’re going through a rough patch doesn’t mean you become useless. I’m always ready to contribute.”
His comments come amid intensifying debate over the direction of South African football and whether experienced players like Tau still have a place in the squad. For the former Brighton & Hove Albion striker, the notion that he is past his prime simply doesn’t hold.
“Sometimes I feel like I’m being treated like I’m 38,” Tau said, as quoted by Africa Foot United. “Just because you have experience doesn’t mean you should be pushed aside.”
Tau’s omission has triggered divided opinion among supporters and analysts alike. Some believe a younger generation should now be given the spotlight, while others argue that seasoned players bring critical composure and leadership to a squad navigating competitive regional and international landscapes.
The forward is no stranger to scrutiny. Throughout his career, Tau has frequently had to prove himself — from his early days at Mamelodi Sundowns to a challenging European spell and his eventual resurgence in North Africa. Now, facing what many perceive as the twilight of his career, he is determined not to let public opinion dictate his exit from the national stage.
Rather than taking a defensive stance, Tau advocated for balance — a thoughtful blend of emerging talent and veteran presence. According to him, the real strength of a team lies not in one or the other, but in unity through diversity of experience.
“A team is stronger when it brings together youth and experience,” he said. “It shouldn’t be about choosing one over the other. The young players bring energy, but the older ones bring understanding and stability.”
His remarks reflect a growing concern among older professionals in African football who often find their careers prematurely overshadowed by the pursuit of youth, even when their performance still meets the standard. For Tau, the issue goes beyond selection — it’s about respect and recognition for what seasoned players can continue to offer.
Despite his absence, Tau has shown no signs of stepping away from the game or closing the door on international duty. His message to selectors, fans, and critics alike is clear: he is still here, still ready, and still capable of making a meaningful impact.
While the debate over South Africa’s squad direction continues, Percy Tau’s voice adds a necessary layer of complexity — a reminder that experience, though sometimes overlooked, remains an invaluable asset on football’s biggest stages.
