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South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL), or Betway Premiership, shells out millions to its top coaches, rivaling Africa’s elite leagues. The highest paid PSL coaches in South Africa, like Nasreddine Nabi and Rhulani Mokwena, earn jaw-dropping salaries for their tactical brilliance. Their pay reflects years of high-stakes matches and trophy hauls.
This article ranks the top 10 highest-paid PSL coaches in 2025, breaks down their earnings, and shares practical tips for aspiring coaches and club managers. Dive in for profiles, insights, and strategies to thrive in South African football.
Highest Paid PSL Coaches in South Africa: The Top 10
R783,000 a month for one coach! The PSL’s top earners command salaries that reflect their trophy-winning prowess. The table below ranks the highest paid PSL coaches in South Africa for 2025, showcasing their teams and annual earnings. Scan it for a quick snapshot of who’s cashing in big.
| Rank | Coach Name | Team | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nasreddine Nabi | Kaizer Chiefs | R9.4 million |
| 2 | Rhulani Mokwena | Formerly Mamelodi Sundowns | R10.2 million |
| 3 | Manqoba Mngqithi | Formerly Mamelodi Sundowns | R9 million |
| 4 | John Maduka | Royal AM | R8.7 million |
| 5 | José Riveiro | Orlando Pirates | R7.8 million |
| 6 | Eric Tinkler | Formerly Cape Town City | R7.8 million |
| 7 | Steve Komphela | Moroka Swallows | R6–7.2 million |
| 8 | Gavin Hunt | SuperSport United | R5.76 million |
| 9 | Molefi Ntseki | Formerly Kaizer Chiefs | R5.4 million |
| 10 | Dan Malesela | Marumo Gallants | R2.64 million |
That table lays bare the earning power of the highest paid PSL coaches in South Africa. But what drives these massive salaries? The next section digs into the experience, trophies, and savvy negotiations behind their paychecks, plus tips for aspiring coaches to break into the PSL.
1. Nasreddine Nabi – R9.4 million annually (Kaizer Chiefs)
Nasreddine Nabi, a Tunisian mastermind, joined Kaizer Chiefs in July 2024, earning R783,000 monthly (R9.4 million annually). His success in Tanzania with Young Africans, where he clinched multiple titles, justifies Chiefs’ hefty investment. Nabi’s attacking philosophy excites Amakhosi fans, but South Africa’s intense media pressure tests his resolve. His salary signals Chiefs’ hunger for PSL dominance.
2. Rhulani Mokwena – R10.2 million annually (formerly Mamelodi Sundowns)
Rhulani Mokwena led the PSL salary race at Mamelodi Sundowns with R850,000 monthly (R10.2 million annually) until joining Wydad AC in 202 cancers. His current salary, likely around R4.8 million yearly, is lower but competitive. Mokwena’s Sundowns era—PSL titles and CAF Champions League runs—made him a star. At 38, his blend of modern tactics and local roots keeps him in demand.
3. Manqoba Mngqithi – R9 million annually (formerly Mamelodi Sundowns)
Manqoba Mngqithi earned R750,000 monthly (R9 million annually) at Mamelodi Sundowns until his contract ended in June 2024. His 15-year career, including stints at Golden Arrows and AmaZulu, highlights his team-building skill. Mngqithi’s next move is unclear, but his salary matched his role in Sundowns’ dominance. Clubs know his expertise commands top pay.
4. John Maduka – R8.7 million annually (Royal AM)
John Maduka, a Malawian coach, earns R725,000 monthly (R8.7 million annually) at Royal AM. A former Bloemfontein Celtic player, he began coaching in 2009. Maduka’s steady hand led Royal AM to a Nedbank Cup semi-final. His talent development and ego management earn respect. His salary reflects Royal AM’s bet on consistency.
5. José Riveiro – R7.8 million annually (Orlando Pirates)
José Riveiro, a Spanish tactician, earns R650,000 monthly (R7.8 million annually) at Orlando Pirates. Since 2022, he’s won the MTN 8, Nedbank Cup, and CBL Cup. His European experience at Inter Turku and Celta Vigo brings discipline. Pirates’ fans love his calm leadership. His salary rewards his trophy haul.
6. Eric Tinkler – R7.8 million annually (formerly Cape Town City)
Eric Tinkler pocketed R650,000 monthly (R7.8 million annually) at Cape Town City until leaving in December 2024. A former Bafana Bafana midfielder, he coached Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United. Tinkler’s tactics led Cape Town City to cup finals. His next role is pending, but his salary showed his worth.
7. Steve Komphela – R6–7.2 million annually (Moroka Swallows)
Steve Komphela, a South African football legend, earns R500,000–R600,000 monthly (R6–7.2 million annually) at Moroka Swallows. His career spans Kaizer Chiefs, Sundowns, and Bafana Bafana. Komphela’s motivational style and PSL expertise keep him relevant. His salary range includes performance bonuses. Swallows bank on him to rise.
8. Gavin Hunt – R5.76 million annually (SuperSport United)
Gavin Hunt, a PSL icon, earns R480,000 monthly (R5.76 million annually) at SuperSport United. His three straight PSL titles (2007–10) and four Coach of the Year awards set him apart. Hunt’s gritty approach fits SuperSport. His salary honors a career of excellence. He’s still chasing silverware.
9. Molefi Ntseki – R5.4 million annually (formerly Kaizer Chiefs)
Molefi Ntseki earned R450,000 monthly (R5.4 million annually) at Kaizer Chiefs until his October 2023 exit. His 17 wins in 37 matches didn’t satisfy fans. Ntseki’s Bafana Bafana youth team experience bolsters his resume. His next job will likely match this salary.
10. Dan Malesela – R2.64 million annually (Marumo Gallants)
Dan Malesela earns R220,000 monthly (R2.64 million annually) at Marumo Gallants. His career spans Chippa United and Royal AM. Malesela’s attacking style thrills fans but lacks consistency. His salary aligns with Marumo’s modest budget.
Why These Coaches Command Big Salaries
High salaries aren’t random. Experience counts—Hunt and Komphela boast decades of success. Trophies seal deals: Riveiro’s cup wins and Mokwena’s titles justify their pay. Negotiation savvy matters too. Nabi’s team leveraged Grades used his Tanzanian triumphs to secure R783,000 monthly. Clubs compete fiercely for scarce talent, driving salaries up.
FAQs on PSL Coach Salaries
Who is the highest-paid PSL coach in 2025?
Nasreddine Nabi at Kaizer Chiefs earns R783,000 monthly (R9.4 million annually).
How much does Orlando Pirates’ coach earn?
José Riveiro earns R650,000 monthly (R7.8 million annually).
Who is the youngest PSL coach?
Tony De Nobrega coached Bloemfontein Celtic at 32. Mokwena (38) is a current young star.
Why are PSL coach salaries high?
Trophies, fan pressure, and talent scarcity drive pay. Big clubs invest heavily.
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Conclusion: Highest Paid PSL Coaches in South Africa
The highest paid PSL coaches in South Africa define the Betway Premiership’s future. From Nabi’s R783,000 monthly at Chiefs to Malesela’s R220,000 at Marumo, their salaries mirror skill and demand. Aspiring coaches can rise with certifications and hustle. Clubs must budget wisely to win. Subscribe for more PSL insights!
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