In South African football, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) is not just about players showcasing their skills — it is also a platform where some of the best coaches in Africa demonstrate their tactical mastery and leadership. These coaches, many with long years of experience and impressive track records, earn salaries that reflect their contributions to the game.
This detailed guide explores the Top 10 highest-paid coaches in the PSL in South Africa for 2025, providing insight into their monthly salaries in rands, achievements, and what makes them stand out.
Whether you’re a football fan, an aspiring coach, or simply curious about how much PSL coaches earn, this article offers all the information you need.
Why Are PSL Coaches So Highly Paid?
Understanding why PSL coaches earn such impressive salaries starts with appreciating their role:
-
They are responsible for the overall performance of multimillion-rand football clubs.
-
They manage large squads and deal with high-pressure environments.
-
They play a pivotal role in building a winning culture, attracting sponsorships, and growing the brand of the club.
Given the competitive nature of South African football and the financial investments from sponsors and broadcasters, clubs are willing to pay top rand to secure the best coaching talent.
Overview of Coaching Salaries in the PSL
Coaching salaries in the PSL vary depending on:
-
Experience and achievements.
-
The size and wealth of the club.
-
Market demand for the coach’s expertise.
-
Negotiated bonuses and endorsements.
Some coaches earn more than R1 million per month, especially when bonuses and incentives are included.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Coaches in the PSL 2025
Here is the definitive list of the highest-paid PSL coaches in 2025, based on credible estimates of their contracts and reported salaries.
1. Rhulani Mokwena
-
Club: Mamelodi Sundowns
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R1.2 million – R1.5 million
-
Why so high?
Mokwena has led Sundowns to domestic dominance and impressive CAF Champions League campaigns. His tactical brilliance and innovative training methods make him the highest-paid coach in the PSL in 2025.
2. Manqoba Mngqithi
-
Club: Mamelodi Sundowns (Assistant Head Coach / Co-coach)
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R900,000 – R1.2 million
-
Why so high?
A key figure in Sundowns’ technical team, Mngqithi’s contributions to the club’s success have earned him a salary competitive with head coaches elsewhere.
3. Jose Riveiro
-
Club: Orlando Pirates
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R800,000 – R1 million
-
Why so high?
The Spanish tactician has revitalized Orlando Pirates, winning domestic cups and making them title contenders again.
4. Steve Komphela
-
Club: Swallows FC
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R700,000 – R900,000
-
Why so high?
Komphela brings decades of PSL experience and is known for stabilizing clubs and fostering a disciplined team culture.
5. Gavin Hunt
-
Club: SuperSport United
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R500,000 – R700,000
-
Why so high?
Hunt’s legacy in the PSL — including multiple league titles — and his ability to compete with fewer resources make him one of the most respected and well-compensated coaches.
6. Eric Tinkler
-
Club: Cape Town City
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R450,000 – R600,000
-
Why so high?
Tinkler has built a competitive Cape Town City side that regularly challenges for cups, earning him a substantial package.
7. Sead Ramović
-
Club: TS Galaxy
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R400,000 – R550,000
-
Why so high?
Known for his intense style and bringing new energy to TS Galaxy, Ramović earns well for delivering results at a smaller club.
8. Brandon Truter
-
Club: AmaZulu FC
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R350,000 – R500,000
-
Why so high?
Truter has improved AmaZulu’s fortunes and secured a salary that reflects his growing reputation.
9. Fadlu Davids
-
Club: Maritzburg United
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R300,000 – R450,000
-
Why so high?
A younger coach with modern ideas, Davids continues to climb the ranks with consistent performances at Maritzburg.
10. John Maduka
-
Club: Royal AM
-
Estimated Monthly Salary: R250,000 – R400,000
-
Why so high?
Maduka has kept Royal AM competitive in the league while developing young talents, earning him a respectable salary.
Summary Table: Highest-Paid PSL Coaches 2025
| Rank | Coach | Club | Monthly Salary (R) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rhulani Mokwena | Mamelodi Sundowns | 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 |
| 2 | Manqoba Mngqithi | Mamelodi Sundowns | 900,000 – 1,200,000 |
| 3 | Jose Riveiro | Orlando Pirates | 800,000 – 1,000,000 |
| 4 | Steve Komphela | Swallows FC | 700,000 – 900,000 |
| 5 | Gavin Hunt | SuperSport United | 500,000 – 700,000 |
| 6 | Eric Tinkler | Cape Town City | 450,000 – 600,000 |
| 7 | Sead Ramović | TS Galaxy | 400,000 – 550,000 |
| 8 | Brandon Truter | AmaZulu FC | 350,000 – 500,000 |
| 9 | Fadlu Davids | Maritzburg United | 300,000 – 450,000 |
| 10 | John Maduka | Royal AM | 250,000 – 400,000 |
What Influences a Coach’s Salary in the PSL?
Several factors determine how much a PSL coach earns:
-
Club resources: Wealthier clubs like Sundowns and Pirates pay more.
-
Experience & reputation: Coaches with titles and international exposure command higher salaries.
-
Performance bonuses: Winning the league, cups, or qualifying for CAF tournaments adds to their earnings.
-
Negotiation skills: Some coaches have agents who negotiate better terms.
FAQs: Highest-Paid PSL Coaches 2025
1. Who is the highest-paid coach in the PSL in 2025?
Rhulani Mokwena of Mamelodi Sundowns, earning up to R1.5 million monthly.
2. How much do assistant coaches earn in the PSL?
Assistants can earn anywhere from R100,000 to R400,000 per month depending on the club.
3. Do PSL coaches earn more than players?
Top players may earn similar or slightly more due to endorsements, but the highest-paid coaches rival even star players.
4. Which club pays its coaches the most?
Mamelodi Sundowns consistently offers the highest salaries in the PSL.
5. Do PSL coaches get bonuses?
Yes, most contracts include performance-related bonuses for trophies and CAF qualification.
6. Can foreign coaches earn more than locals?
Sometimes, especially if they bring unique expertise and a proven record.
7. Are coaching jobs in the PSL secure?
Not always; clubs change coaches often based on results.
8. What qualifications do you need to coach in the PSL?
Typically, CAF A or UEFA Pro licenses are required at the highest level.
9. How do PSL coaching salaries compare to Europe?
Salaries in Europe are much higher due to bigger revenues, but PSL salaries are competitive within Africa.
10. Is there a pay gap between men’s and women’s league coaches?
Yes, men’s league coaches earn significantly more because of higher revenues and sponsorships.
Conclusion: The Financial Rewards of PSL Coaching
The PSL remains one of Africa’s richest football leagues, and this wealth is reflected in what clubs pay their coaches.
Top coaches like Rhulani Mokwena, Manqoba Mngqithi, and Jose Riveiro earn impressive salaries that reward their skills, experience, and ability to win under pressure.
For aspiring coaches, this list shows the potential rewards of hard work, tactical innovation, and consistent results. Whether leading giants like Sundowns or rebuilding a smaller club, PSL coaches play a vital role in South African football — and they’re compensated accordingly.