In 2025, South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) continues to shell out top salaries for tactical brains on the sidelines. Clubs are investing heavily in coaches with international experience, strong trophy hauls, and proven strategies – and the numbers show it. Here’s a look at the highest-paid coaches in the country this season:
The Highest-Paid PSL Coaches in 2025
1. Nasreddine Nabi – Kaizer Chiefs
- Monthly Salary: R783,000
- Annual Package: ~R9.4 million
- Achievements: FA Cup titles in Tanzania, took AS FAR Rabat to the Moroccan Throne Cup final, Nedbank Cup
- Contract Details: Four-year deal, includes performance bonuses
- Why So High? Chiefs are banking on Nabi to end their long trophy drought.
2. Miguel Cardoso – Mamelodi Sundowns
- Monthly Salary: ±R750,000
- Annual Package: ~R9 million
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Achievements: Known for his tactical structure in Europe (with AEK Athens, Celta Vigo)
- Why It Matters: Tasked with maintaining Sundowns’ domestic dominance and CAF ambitions
- Contract Highlights: Includes incentives for league wins and CAF progress
3. Steve Komphela – Mamelodi Sundowns (Senior Coach)
- Monthly Salary: ±R700,000
- Annual Package: ~R8.4 million
- Achievements: Former Bafana Bafana captain, previous title wins as part of Sundowns’ staff
- Return to Club: Rejoined Sundowns in 2024 after stint at Golden Arrows
4. José Riveiro – Former Orlando Pirates Coach
- Monthly Salary (2024): ±R700,000
- Annual Package: ~R8.5 million
- Achievements: MTN8 and Nedbank Cup double in 2023
- Status: Left for a role in Egypt this year
- Impact: Known for sharp tactical systems and quick trophy wins
5. Eric Tinkler – Former Cape Town City Coach
- Monthly Salary (2024): ±R700,000
- Annual Package: ~R8.4 million
- Achievements: Led Pirates and SuperSport to cup finals, kept City consistently competitive
- Status: Parted ways with the club in early 2025
- Severance: Likely received a substantial exit package
6. John Maduka – Royal AM
- Monthly Salary: ±R600,000
- Annual Package: ~R7.2 million
- Achievements: Steady mid-table performance with Royal AM
- Credentials: Former Malawian international, UEFA-licensed coach
7. Brandon Truter – Richards Bay (formerly Sekhukhune United)
- Monthly Salary: ±R600,000
- Annual Package: ~R7 million
- Achievements: Won MTN8 with Moroka Swallows
- Reputation: Known for revitalising struggling teams
8. Steve Barker – Stellenbosch FC
- Monthly Salary: ±R400,000
- Annual Package: ~R4.8 million
- Achievements: Promotion specialist, solid runs in domestic cups
- Standing: Among the best-paid at smaller clubs
Notable Mentions (Past Top Earners)
- Lehlohonolo Seema (ex-Kaizer Chiefs): Earned around R500,000/month before his exit in 2023.
- Kaitano Tembo (ex-Sekhukhune United): Similar salary range, with a generous termination payout in 2022.
High Pay, High Pressure
In a league where pressure mounts from fans and owners alike, PSL coaches are earning big money – and expectations rise with every cent. From Chiefs’ ambitious rebuild under Nabi to Sundowns’ continued dominance under Mngqithi and Komphela, the coaching bench is both lucrative and cutthroat. Performance bonuses, contract extensions, and even exit payouts mean coaching in the PSL is as financially rewarding as it is intense.
As the 2025 season rolls on, one thing is clear: South African clubs believe in investing in leadership. And with trophies at stake, every rand must bring results.
Note: Salaries for coaches are estimates based on previous reports and general PSL salary ranges. Exact figures may vary.
Related article: 15 Highest-Paid Players In the DStv PSL This Season – Who Is On Top?
