South African Football Players Salary and Allowance Pay 2025

Football remains one of the most lucrative careers in South Africa, especially for players competing in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and those representing the national team. With rising investments in football from sponsors, broadcasters, and club owners, South African football players’ salaries and allowance pay in 2025 have become a hot topic for fans, aspiring players, and analysts alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about football players’ salaries in South Africa including how much they earn monthly, the highest-paid players, bonuses and allowances, factors influencing their income, and how salaries have evolved over time.

This article also provides answers to frequently asked questions and a summary table for quick reference.

Why South African Football Players Are Well Paid

The PSL is considered one of the richest football leagues in Africa, thanks to its strong sponsorship deals, robust fan base, and lucrative television rights agreements. Clubs compete fiercely to attract the best talent, which has driven salaries upwards.

Several factors contribute to high pay:

• Broadcasting and sponsorship revenues.

• Club ambition to win trophies and qualify for continental competitions.

• Demand for experienced and skilled players.

• Marketability of top players who attract fans and endorsements.

How Much Do South African Football Players Earn in 2025?

Salaries in South African football vary widely depending on:

• The club’s financial strength.

• The player’s skill level, experience, and reputation.

• Position (goalkeepers tend to earn less than forwards and midfielders).

• Whether the player is local or foreign.

• Involvement in the national team (Bafana Bafana).

On average:

• Top PSL players: R400,000 – R800,000 per month.

• Mid-level PSL players: R100,000 – R300,000 per month.

• Entry-level/young PSL players: R20,000 – R50,000 per month.

• National team bonuses: additional R50,000 – R150,000 per match, depending on the competition.

Top 10 Highest-Paid South African Football Players in 2025

Here is a list of players who reportedly command the highest salaries in the PSL:

1. Themba Zwane

• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R700,000 – R800,000

• A creative midfielder and national team star, known for his consistency.

2. Keagan Dolly

• Club: Kaizer Chiefs

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R650,000 – R750,000

• Returned from Europe to become one of the most expensive players in the league.

3. Andile Jali

• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R600,000 – R700,000

• Veteran midfielder with international experience.

4. Itumeleng Khune

• Club: Kaizer Chiefs

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R450,000 – R550,000

• Legendary goalkeeper with over a decade at the highest level.

5. Khama Billiat (Zimbabwean)

• Club: Kaizer Chiefs

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R450,000 – R500,000

• One of the highest-paid foreign players in the PSL.

6. Peter Shalulile (Namibian)

• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R400,000 – R500,000

• Top scorer and vital striker for Sundowns.

7. Sipho Mbule

• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R350,000 – R450,000

• Promising young midfielder.

8. Thapelo Morena

• Club: Mamelodi Sundowns

• Estimated Monthly Salary: R300,000 – R400,000

• Versatile player contributing in multiple positions.

9. Njabulo Blom

• Club: St. Louis City SC (MLS, formerly Chiefs)

• Estimated Salary Abroad: Approx. R300,000 per month

• Young export with increasing value.

10. Lyle Foster

• Club: Burnley FC (Premier League)

• Estimated Salary Abroad: Approx. R500,000+ per month

• One of South Africa’s brightest talents playing overseas.

Summary Table: South African Football Player Salaries 2025

What Other Allowances Do Football Players in South Africa Get?

Apart from salaries, players receive several perks and allowances, which can significantly increase their total income:

• Winning Bonuses: Paid for victories or qualifying rounds.

• Signing-on Fees: Lump sum when signing a new contract.

• Appearance Fees: Earned per match played.

• Accommodation Allowance: Especially for foreign or relocated players.

• Endorsements & Sponsorships: Deals with brands can add millions annually.

• Travel Allowance: For matches, especially CAF competitions.

Factors That Influence Player Salaries in South Africa

Several variables determine a player’s salary:

• Club prestige and financial capacity.

• Player’s skill level, fitness, and experience.

• Marketability and popularity among fans.

• Player’s agent and negotiation skills.

• Position played (strikers usually earn more).

• Local vs. foreign status (some foreign players earn premiums).

How Do PSL Salaries Compare to Other African Leagues?

The PSL remains Africa’s richest league, surpassing:

• Egyptian Premier League.

• Moroccan Botola Pro.

• Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle.

However, European leagues still pay much more, which is why many South African players aspire to move abroad.

Do Players in the National Team Earn Separately?

Yes, national team players earn match bonuses, separate from club salaries:

• Friendly matches: R50,000 – R70,000 per game.

• Competitive matches: R100,000 – R150,000 per game.

• Tournament prize money is also shared among the squad.

FAQs: South African Football Players’ Salaries 2025

1. Who is the highest-paid footballer in South Africa in 2025?

Themba Zwane, earning up to R800,000 monthly at Mamelodi Sundowns.

2. How much does an average PSL player earn monthly?

Between R100,000 and R300,000 per month.

3. Do players get paid during off-season?

Yes, as long as they are under contract, they continue receiving their salaries.

4. Are foreign players paid more than locals?

Sometimes, if they bring exceptional skill or experience.

5. How much does a new/young player earn?

Entry-level players can earn between R20,000 and R50,000 per month.

6. Do players pay for their own accommodation?

Usually, clubs provide or subsidize housing for players.

7. What other income sources do players have?

Endorsements, sponsorships, and sometimes business ventures.

8. How much do national team players make?

Up to R150,000 per competitive match, in addition to club salaries.

9. Why do Sundowns players earn more?

Sundowns is one of the wealthiest clubs with the resources to pay higher wages.

10. Is it possible to earn over R1 million a month in South Africa?

Currently, very rare for players. Coaches are more likely to cross that mark.

Conclusion: South African Football Salaries in Perspective

South African football players enjoy some of the best salaries in Africa, thanks to the strength of the PSL and investments from sponsors and clubs. Players like Themba Zwane and Keagan Dolly demonstrate what is possible with talent, hard work, and dedication.

For aspiring footballers, these figures show the potential rewards of reaching the top level. But beyond the money, players also enjoy the respect and recognition that come with representing their clubs and country.

If you dream of making it in professional football, South Africa remains an excellent place to build your career — with competitive pay, passionate fans, and growing opportunities.