Making it to the English Premier League is a dream for many footballers.
But for South Africa’s Percy Tau, that dream came with more waiting on the bench than playing on the pitch.
In a candid interview with Robert Marawa on Radio 94.7, the 31-year-old forward finally unpacked why he decided to walk away from Brighton & Hove Albion—and the Premier League altogether.
A Complicated Start at Brighton
Tau joined Brighton in 2018 with high hopes, but his journey hit a snag before it even began.
Work permit issues meant he had to spend a year on loan at Belgian side Union SG instead of immediately lacing up in England.
He continued to build his form during loan spells at Club Brugge and Anderlecht, where he was notably successful.
It wasn’t until 2021—three years after signing—that Tau finally made his Brighton debut.
But even then, he only made six appearances before deciding to make a big move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly later that same year.
“I Needed More Than Just Game Days”
One of the biggest struggles for Tau in the Premier League wasn’t just the lack of game time—it was the structure of the schedule itself.
“I’m the kind of player who thrives in training,” Tau said.
“But in the Premier League, it’s mostly recovery and rest between intense matches.
We’d play Saturday, off Sunday and Monday, train Tuesday, off again Wednesday and Thursday.
That rhythm made it hard for me to get into form.”
For a player who sharpens his skills in training, the limited sessions made it tough for him to impress the coaching staff.
When You’re Ready but the Coach Isn’t
Tau didn’t hold back when speaking about his former coach, Graham Potter.
He admitted to having multiple conversations with Potter about his desire to play more.
The response? Tau was often told that players like Leandro Trossard were already performing well.
“Yes, Trossard was doing great,” Tau admitted.
“But he was getting regular chances.
I just wanted the same opportunity to prove myself.”
He tried to stay patient.
He even opted out of the Olympics to stay with Brighton and impress in pre-season friendlies, which he did.
But when the competitive season rolled around, Tau found himself on the bench once again.
Moving On for the Sake of His Career
Eventually, Tau realized he was going to keep hitting the same wall.
Despite his efforts, the minutes on the pitch weren’t coming.
That’s when he decided it was time for a change—and Al Ahly offered that fresh start.
In Cairo, he found not only playing time but also success, quickly becoming a key figure in the squad.
So Where Should Percy Tau Head Next?
Now 31 and with experience across Europe and Africa, Tau’s next move will be crucial.
He’s shown flashes of brilliance when given the opportunity.
The big question is: which team will give him the consistent stage he needs?
Whether it’s a return to Europe or continuing to thrive in African football, fans of the ‘Lion of Judah’ will be watching closely.