The highest paid players in the PSL now come from all around the world – the South African top league is now one of the most lucrative football stages in the world. In the dynamic world of South African football, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) remains a stage where talent, drama, and passion come alive.
As the league grows in influence and entertainment value, so too do the salaries of its top performers. In 2025, PSL clubs are investing heavily in players who not only deliver on the pitch but also bring star power, international experience, and leadership off it.
This article explores the elite list of the top 10 highest-paid PSL players, their journeys, clubs, and the impact they’ve made in shaping modern South African football.
The Top 10 Highest-Paid PSL Players (2025)
Let’s break down the elite earners shaping the 2025 season:
| Rank | Player | Club | Monthly Salary (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Keagan Dolly | Kaizer Chiefs | R1,450,000 |
| 2️⃣ | Samir Nurković | SuperSport United | R930,000 |
| 3️⃣ | Khama Billiat | Kaizer Chiefs | R850,000 |
| 4️⃣ | Bongani Zungu | Mamelodi Sundowns | R700,000 |
| 5️⃣ | Andile Jali | Moroka Swallows | R600,000 |
| 6️⃣ | Deon Hotto | Orlando Pirates | R500,000 |
| 7️⃣ | Ronwen Williams | Mamelodi Sundowns | R500,000 |
| 8️⃣ | Brian Onyango | Stellenbosch FC | R380,000 |
| 9️⃣ | Marcelo Allende | Mamelodi Sundowns | R350,000 |
| 🔟 | Percy Tau (Abroad) | Al Ahly (Egypt) | R2,000,000 (Global) |
1. Keagan Dolly – Kaizer Chiefs
Keagan Dolly remains the poster boy of PSL excellence. His monthly salary of R1.45 million positions him not just as the league’s highest-paid star, but also as a beacon of what local talent can achieve. Having spent time with Montpellier in France’s Ligue 1 before returning to Chiefs, Dolly brings flair, composure, and tactical intelligence. His ability to read the game and deliver match-winning moments has solidified his place as a cornerstone of the Amakhosi’s ambitions.
2. Samir Nurković – SuperSport United
The Serbian forward re-emerged in 2025 after a high-profile switch to SuperSport United. Known for his aggression, aerial prowess, and physical dominance, Nurković commands a monthly pay of R930,000. His move marked a strategic investment by SuperSport to close the gap on Sundowns and Chiefs, and early performances show he’s earning every cent.
3. Khama Billiat – Kaizer Chiefs
Khama Billiat’s career has been studded with brilliance. At R850,000/month, he remains one of the top earners despite injury setbacks. His legacy stretches beyond statistics; Billiat symbolizes the PSL’s rise as a competitive and financially rewarding league. With goals, assists, and mesmerizing dribbles, he remains a fan favorite and continues to shine in clutch moments.
4. Bongani Zungu – Mamelodi Sundowns
Once plying his trade in France and Scotland, Zungu’s return to Sundowns brought leadership and experience. His salary of R700,000/month reflects Sundowns’ trust in his midfield orchestration and ball retention. As a defensive midfielder with an eye for distribution, Zungu is a tactical asset in both domestic and continental competitions.
5. Andile Jali – Moroka Swallows
After a surprise move to Moroka Swallows, Andile Jali has taken on the role of elder statesman. Earning R600,000/month, his impact extends beyond the field. Jali, with his blend of grit and grace, mentors younger teammates while still putting in commanding performances week after week.
6. Deon Hotto – Orlando Pirates
Namibian international Deon Hotto has steadily risen through the ranks to become Pirates’ midfield engine. At R500,000/month, Hotto’s contributions are pivotal — whether in breakaways, dead-ball situations, or key interceptions. His stamina and football IQ make him indispensable to the Buccaneers.
7. Ronwen Williams – Mamelodi Sundowns
The national team’s No. 1 goalkeeper earns R500,000/month, making him the highest-paid goalie in the PSL. His consistent saves, sharp reflexes, and leadership at the back have helped Sundowns stay defensively disciplined. Williams also boasts an impressive clean sheet record and is among the most trusted figures in South African football.
8. Brian Onyango – Stellenbosch FC
In a breakout season for Stellenbosch, Brian Onyango’s commanding defense and composure brought attention — and a salary bump. At R380,000/month, he anchors the backline with timely tackles and strong aerial duels. His influence is growing as Stellies challenge the traditional powerhouses.
9. Marcelo Allende – Mamelodi Sundowns
One of the most exciting foreign imports, Allende brings South American flair to South African soil. Sundowns snapped him up to enhance their attacking depth, and his R350,000/month salary reflects the club’s faith in his creativity, through balls, and set-piece mastery. Allende has quickly become a fan favorite.
10. Percy Tau – Al Ahly (Egypt)
Though technically abroad, Percy Tau remains the highest-paid South African footballer globally with a staggering R2 million/month at Egyptian giants Al Ahly. His career has included stints with Brighton & Hove Albion (England), Club Brugge (Belgium), and now dominance in Egypt. Tau’s success sets a benchmark for aspiring South African players looking to conquer international markets.
The Rise of Financial Investment in PSL
The PSL’s evolution over the past decade has been nothing short of transformational. Thanks to lucrative sponsorships like those from DSTV, Nedbank, Carling Black Label, and MTN, clubs have been able to boost their financial muscle and attract high-quality talent. Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates — the traditional powerhouses — have become breeding grounds for stars, and their salaries reflect this commitment.
Salary structures now rival those in top African and even some European leagues. Bonuses, appearance fees, endorsement deals, and signing contracts are part of the modern PSL player’s financial package. And as performance becomes increasingly tied to marketability, salaries are soaring.
The Role of PSL Clubs in Salary Evolution
Top clubs in the PSL aren’t just competing for trophies — they’re battling for talent. The increase in salaries stems from a deeper understanding that footballers are investments. Teams like Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, and Orlando Pirates have led this transformation with strategic acquisitions and retention efforts.
It’s not uncommon now for clubs to offer performance-based incentives, loyalty bonuses, and image rights clauses. This modern contractual landscape has made PSL players more financially empowered and ambitious.
How PSL Salaries Compare Globally
While the PSL can’t yet match the megabucks of Europe’s top five leagues (Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1), it ranks among the most financially rewarding leagues on the African continent. For comparison:
- Egyptian Premier League (EPL) salaries range from R500,000–R2.5 million/month for top players.
- Moroccan and Tunisian leagues offer R200,000–R800,000/month.
- Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) salaries are generally lower, around R30,000–R150,000/month.
South Africa’s PSL thus remains the go-to league for top-tier African talent seeking both competitive play and financial stability.
Factors Influencing PSL Salaries
A player’s salary in the PSL is shaped by several key factors:
- International Experience – Players who’ve played abroad command higher salaries.
- Marketability – Fan appeal, jersey sales, and media presence boost player value.
- Position & Impact – Goal-scorers and playmakers often earn more than defenders.
- Contract Length & Loyalty – Longer contracts with consistent performance see yearly hikes.
- Endorsements & Sponsorships – Deals with Nike, Puma, or MTN further augment income.
The Future of Salaries in PSL
If current trends continue, we could see PSL salaries approach the million-dollar mark annually for local stars — especially with increased commercialization, global broadcasting, and club investments. Youth academies are also churning out talents who can eventually command premium wages.
Furthermore, women’s football is gaining momentum. While salaries in the SAFA Women’s League are still developing, stars like Andile Dlamini and Janine van Wyk are carving new paths and may soon join elite earners in the league.
Related:
- Top 10 Highest Paid Coaches In PSL
- Top 10 Richest Teams In South Africa
- Top 10 Richest Rappers In South Africa
- Top 10 Richest Kids in South Africa
Conclusion:
They have to be very talented, capable, and good with the supporters. Another factor that facilitates the payment of high salaries is when players win trophies and being among the highest-paid PSL players. This increases their value because they can only be approached by teams who have the ambition to,