Mamelodi Sundowns has long been a dominant force in South African football, consistently clinching titles and making their mark on the continental stage. This sustained success isn’t just a testament to their on-field prowess but also to a robust financial strategy that allows them to attract and retain elite talent. For fans and football enthusiasts alike, a key question often arises: who is the highest-paid player in Sundowns? This article delves into the club’s salary structure for the 2025 season, revealing the top earners and the strategic thinking behind their compensation.
Ronwen Williams: A Top Earner in Sundowns
As of the 2025 season, Ronwen Williams stands out as one of the highest-paid players at Mamelodi Sundowns, reportedly earning R500,000 per month. His transfer to Sundowns in 2021 marked a significant investment in a top-tier shot-stopper, reflecting the club’s commitment to securing a strong defensive foundation. While previous reports indicated Bongani Zungu as the highest earner, current information confirms he is no longer with the club, having joined AmaZulu FC as a free agent. This makes Williams a prominent figure among the club’s top earners.
The Highest-Paid Player in Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns‘ commitment to competitive remuneration is evident across its squad, reflecting its status as a financially strong club in South African football. Several key players receive substantial monthly salaries, highlighting the club’s investment in a deep and talented roster.
Here’s a summary of Mamelodi Sundowns’ highest reported monthly salaries for 2025:
| Player Name | Position | Reported Monthly Salary (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ronwen Williams | Goalkeeper | R500,000 |
| Denis Onyango | Goalkeeper | R450,000 |
| Marcelo Allende | Attacking Midfielder | R430,000 |
| Thapelo Morena | Defender/Midfielder | R400,000 |
| Peter Shalulile | Striker | R400,000 |
| Sipho Mbule | Central Midfielder | R350,000 |
| Mosa Lebusa | Left-Back/Centre-Back | R300,000 |
This list reveals a strategic blend of seasoned veterans, such as Denis Onyango, alongside impactful acquisitions like Ronwen Williams and Marcelo Allende. The significant investment in goalkeepers, with two of the top earners being shot-stoppers, highlights the club’s emphasis on a strong defensive foundation as a cornerstone of their strategy.
Beyond Salaries: Market Value and Strategic Investment
While salaries indicate direct compensation, market values offer another perspective on a player’s worth in the global transfer market. Players like Marcelo Allende and Teboho Mokoena, both valued at €2.3 million , represent significant assets for Sundowns, reflecting their potential for future development or high transfer fees. This dual approach—high salaries for proven performers and investment in high-market-value talent—showcases Sundowns’ comprehensive strategy.
The club’s strategic player investment also extends to proactive contract management. A notable example is the extension of Themba Zwane’s contract beyond the 2024/25 season, announced on April 18, 2025. Despite his age (35) and a recent Achilles injury , the decision to retain Zwane underscores the club’s commitment to influential, long-serving players who are integral to the team’s identity and sustained success. This approach prioritizes loyalty, proven performance, and leadership, even for aging players, over purely market-driven decisions focused on resale value.
Sundowns’ Financial Edge in the PSL
Mamelodi Sundowns’ player compensation figures firmly establish them at the pinnacle of the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The club’s owner, Patrice Motsepe, has publicly affirmed his reasons for paying players well , reinforcing a deliberate and robust financial strategy. This financial stability allows Sundowns to offer highly attractive salaries and transfer fees, making them a preferred destination for top talent within South Africa and across the continent. This, in turn, creates a significant competitive advantage that is difficult for rival clubs to match, enabling Sundowns to consistently assemble a formidable squad.
Also Read: PSL Highest-Paid Players In 2025
The question of who is the highest-paid player in Sundowns leads to Ronwen Williams as a top earner, but it also uncovers a broader narrative of strategic financial investment. Mamelodi Sundowns’ approach to player compensation, encompassing high salaries for key performers, the acquisition of high-market-value assets, and the strategic retention of influential veterans, is the primary engine of their sustained competitive advantage. This multi-faceted financial strategy ensures that Sundowns remains a dominant force in South African football, setting a high standard for professional management and sporting achievement.
DISCLAIMER: Please note that these are only estimates and are based on available research and information. The article is updated regularly.
