Ex-Chiefs star warns Percy Tau against joining Soweto giants

Percy Tau. Photo credit: CAF

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has offered strong advice to recently unattached Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau, suggesting he steer clear of moves to Orlando Pirates or Kaizer Chiefs.

While acknowledging Tau's quality, Khanye believes a return to Mamelodi Sundowns would be a far more sensible career move for "the Lion of Judah."

Tau, now a free agent, has publicly stated his openness to offers and revealed the kind of deal he'd consider. However, Khanye, speaking on iDiski TV, cautions that a move to either Soweto club would present immense challenges for the player, whose form, he argues, isn't what it once was.

Khanye expressed concern that Tau would face "immense pressure" at Orlando Pirates due to their current crop of talented, dynamic, and speedy attackers.

"He's no longer the type of player who could get away with one-versus-one situations," Khanye remarked, questioning who Tau would realistically displace in the starting lineup. He also highlighted the significant expectations that would come with a high salary, such as the reported R400,000 per month, at a club like Pirates, noting the risk of contract termination if performance doesn't match the pay.

Regarding Chiefs, Khanye believes the "surrounding" environment would be too difficult for Tau to thrive. He questioned whether Tau still possesses the "legs" to single-handedly carry a struggling team, citing the struggles of even top players like Gaston Sirino and Khama Billiat at Naturena.

"If Khama struggled and eventually left, how is Percy Tau going to go there and do everything for Kaizer Chiefs and perform miracles? It’s not going to happen," Khanye asserted.

Instead, Khanye passionately advocated for a Sundowns reunion. He suggested Tau should "humble himself and accept a salary cut" to return to Chloorkop, where he could offer valuable experience in the Champions League and play as a striker.

Khanye also emphasised the long-term benefits of a Sundowns return, pointing to the possibility of a post-playing career within the club, given their history of accommodating former legends.