Kaizer Chiefs star tops list of highest paid players in PSL

Kaizer Chiefs star tops list of highest paid players in PSL
Credit: Icon Sport

In this article, you will discover the highest paid players in PSL. But first, let's have a look at the league's background.

The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) stands as a vibrant crucible where passion, skill, and competition meld to create a mesmerizing spectacle of football.

Yet, beyond the thrilling goals, breathtaking saves, and dramatic victories, lies a captivating realm of financial prowess that elevates certain individuals to a realm beyond the pitch. Read on as we reveal the highest paid players in the PSL.

About the PSL

The South African Premier League (PSL) stands as the pinnacle of men's professional football in South Africa, an electrifying showcase of skill, competition, and fervor.

Recognized as one of the most prominent soccer tournaments in Africa, the PSL has burgeoned in popularity over the years, captivating audiences not only within its borders but across the globe.

Boasting an impressive roster of top-tier footballers, the league is a crucible of talent, a breeding ground for excellence that nurtures the finest athletes in the country.

Kaizer Chiefs assemble before a PSL game
Credit: Icon Sport

As an embodiment of its stature, the PSL proudly houses a legion of players whose earnings ascend to unprecedented heights, often making them the highest paid players in PSL and across the African continent.

With 16 formidable teams vying for supremacy, the league reverberates with the passion of both players and fans, painting a dynamic portrait of South African football at its zenith.

In this exploration, we delve into the opulent world of the PSL players salary 2023, unveiling the names and narratives that have secured their positions as the Titans of earnings within this esteemed league.

Unveiling the highest paid players in PSL

1. Keagan Dolly – R1.45 million

Keagan Dolly in action for Kaizer Chiefs
Credit: Icon Sport

Keagan Larenzo Dolly has firmly secured his place in the annals of South African football. Born on 22 January 1993 in Johannesburg, Dolly has evolved into a seasoned athlete with a remarkable journey.

He currently plays for Kaizer Chiefs and stands out not only for his on-field skills but also for his impressive monthly salary of R1.45 million, making him the highest paid player in PSL for 2023.

Dolly's journey includes spells at Ajax, Mamelodi Sundowns, and France's Montpellier HSC before joining Kaizer Chiefs in 2021. His presence extends beyond club football, as he also contributes to the South African national team, Bafana Bafana.

2. Khama Billiat – R850,000

Khama Billiat of Kaizer Chiefs during warm ups
Credit: Icon Sport

Born in 1990, Khama Billiat stands out as the second highest-paid soccer player in South Africa with a monthly salary of R850,000. Billiat's professional journey began in Zimbabwe before transitioning to the PSL, playing for clubs like Ajax Cape Town and Mamelodi Sundowns.

In 2018, he joined Kaizer Chiefs after a successful 5-year tenure at Mamelodi. Notably, Billiat retired from international football in 2021.

3. Deon Hotto – R500,000

Deon Hotto of Orlando Pirates shoots at the goal
Credit: Icon Sport

Deon Hotto commands a monthly salary of R500,000. He takes the crown as the highest-earning player for Orlando Pirates. Hotto's performance in the same season has seen him netting two goals in 21 matches.

Beyond his club achievements, Hotto's R500,000 salary also secures his position as one of the highest paid players in PSL.

4. Itumeleng Khune – R480,000

Itumeleng Khune of Kaizer Chiefs against Mamelodi Sundowns
Credit: Icon Sport

Currently steering the ship as captain for both the South African national football team and Kaizer Chiefs, Itumeleng Khune's influence extends beyond the pitch. Beyond his sporting achievements, he also balances his football career with a unique part-time role as a plumber.

Despite battling a series of injuries that impacted his performance, Kaizer Chiefs opted to retain Khune's talents in 2019. His commanding presence between the goalposts is reflected in his substantial monthly salary of R480,000, which has been rightfully earned.

Despite his contract originally ending in the 2020/2021 season, the club recognized Khune's value and granted him an extension, ensuring his continued impact on the field.

5. Ricardo Nascimento – R400,000

Ricardo Nascimento of Royal AM celebrating
Credit: Icon Sport

Ricardo dos Santos Nascimento, hailing from Ilhéus, State of Bahia, Brazil, is a distinguished defender whose talents have graced both Mamelodi Sundowns and now Royal AM.

Having represented Mamelodi Sundowns from 2016 to 2022, Nascimento has solidified his reputation as a skilled athlete. His current position at Royal AM, coupled with a monthly salary of R400,000, positions him among the top 10 highest players in PSL (South Africa Premier League), a testament to his prowess and contribution on the field.

Who is the highest paid player in African Football League?

The 2023 inaugural African Football League was won by Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa. They defeated Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca in the finals.

However, we don't really know the highest paid player in the African Football League as some of the players who took part in the competition rarely disclose their monthly or annual earnings.

This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago

Rababe Koussaimi, a 22-year-old journalist, is deeply passionate about the world of sports. She grew up in a footballing environment, supporting both Bayern Munich and Wydad Athletic Club. She began her English journalism career by hosting a podcast for the first English radio station in Morocco. Currently, the Moroccan journalist channels her enthusiasm into writing and conducting extensive research, creating insightful and engaging content for GoalBall Live readers.