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Riveiro's predecessor slammed for releasing Tau at Ahly

An Egyptian football legend has criticised former Al Ahly head coach Marcel Koller for releasing Bafana Bafana veteran Percy Tau from the club.

Tau joined the Egyptian giants in 2021 from Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion during the tenure of then-coach Pitso Mosimane, who had previously managed Mamelodi Sundowns.

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However, following Mosimane’s departure in 2022, Tau’s future at Al Ahly became uncertain under Swiss coach Koller, who took over from the South African tactician.

Their reported strained relationship ultimately led to Tau’s release in January 2025. He was one of several players let go by the club, a decision that did not sit well with former Ahly star and current football analyst Mohsen Saleh.

Saleh openly criticised Koller for parting ways with some of the club's key players, including Tau.

Despite Koller’s impressive record, winning 11 trophies, including two CAF Champions League titles and two Egyptian Premier League championships, Saleh described his tenure as the worst in the club’s history.

"After Ricardo Soares' departure, we thought of a replacement, and Marcel Koller had a solid resume, which is why we signed him. However, he also had his own flaws," Saleh told Al Masry Al Youm.

"Marcel Koller was the reason for eliminating players and causing Al Ahly to lose millions due to transfers and players.

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"For example, the deals for Percy Tau, Anthony Modeste, Reda Selim, Aliou Dieng, and Christo. In short, Koller's era is the worst for coaches."

Following a brief stint with Qatar SC, Tau is now a free agent after leaving the Qatari side at the end of the 2024/25 season. His next move remains uncertain.

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