Who are the highest paid PSL players in 2025? The Premier Soccer League (PSL), now branded under the Betway Premiership, has evolved into one of the continent’s financial giants in football. With elite clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs dishing out lucrative packages, the league continues to attract and retain some of the best talent in Africa. Let’s delve into the top earners lighting up our pitches this year.
Highest Paid PSL Players in 2025
Samir Nurković (TS Galaxy) – R930,000/month
Former Kaizer Chiefs fan favourite Samir Nurković is the top earner in the country in 2025. The Serbian forward is now spearheading TS Galaxy’s attack, raking in a whopping R930,000 monthly—totalling over R11 million annually. His new deal makes him the PSL’s highest-paid player, thanks to his consistent performances and goal-scoring instincts.
Deon Hotto (Orlando Pirates) – R500,000/month
Namibian international Deon Hotto is one of the Buccaneers’ most influential players—and he’s paid accordingly. Hotto banks around R500,000 every month, earning approximately R6 million annually. His versatility and attacking prowess make him invaluable to the Pirates’ midfield engine.
Itumeleng Khune (Former Kaizer Chiefs) – R480,000/month
Though nearing the end of his illustrious career, Itumeleng Khune remains a marketing gem and respected leader at Naturena. With a monthly salary of R480,000, the veteran goalkeeper continues to be one of the top earners in the league, driven by both his legacy and brand value.
Thapelo Morena (Mamelodi Sundowns) – R400,000/month
Morena’s reputation for speed and tactical versatility ensures he remains an essential part of the Brazilians’ squad. Earning around R400,000 each month, he’s one of the highest-paid local players in the country, with his annual take-home sitting just shy of R5 million.
Brian Onyango (Stellenbosch FC) – R380,000/month
Kenyan defender Brian Onyango, now playing his trade at Stellenbosch FC after his stint at Sundowns, commands an impressive R380,000 per month. His robust performances have kept him among the league’s best-compensated defenders.
Other Big Earners Just Outside the Top Bracket
The PSL continues to showcase financial muscle with several players earning close to the top five:
- Zitha Kwinika (Kaizer Chiefs) – Approx. R370,000/month
- Marcelo Allende (Mamelodi Sundowns) – Around R350,000/month
- Sipho Mbule (Mamelodi Sundowns) – Estimated R350,000/month
- Mosa Lebusa (Mamelodi Sundowns) – Around R300,000/month
It’s clear that the top three clubs dominate when it comes to high-value contracts, with Sundowns leading the way.
Endorsements and Bonuses: The Hidden Goldmine
Salaries tell only half the story. For many players, commercial deals and bonuses significantly boost their total income:
- Themba Zwane (Sundowns) adds to his R250,000 salary with a prominent deal from Lexus South Africa.
- Thembinkosi Lorch, now with Wydad Casablanca, remains a Puma ambassador.
- Deon Hotto is reported to have endorsement ties with Adidas.
- Khama Billiat, while no longer in the PSL, previously enjoyed major commercial deals.
These endorsements, especially for marketable stars with strong social media presence, can contribute hundreds of thousands of rands each year.
The Trophy Bonus Effect
Winning pays well. In 2025, the PSL champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, bagged R20 million—up from R15 million in previous seasons. Clubs often share this prize pool with their squads, further sweetening the pot for players. Additional incentives from cup victories and participation in CAF tournaments also pad annual earnings.
A League Where Stars Shine—And Earn Big
From marquee names like Samir Nurković to veterans such as Khune and emerging talents at Sundowns, the Betway Premiership proves that elite talent is handsomely rewarded in the country. With salaries, bonuses, and endorsement deals combined, some players are easily clearing over R15 million a year—a powerful statement of how far the PSL has come in the modern football economy.
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