In South African top flight football, players earn big salaries. While exact figures are unavailable, it’s estimated that the top bracket of earners in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) earn within the region of R200 000 and R450 000 per month.
Factors that have led to this upward surge include improved business operations within the league as well as the business of sport. Over the past few years the league has grown to such an extent that it’s now one of the world’s top leagues financially. (It’s ranked as one of the top 10 leagues in the world financially).
In addition to this, various sponsors have jumped on board to collaborate with big teams such as Orlando Pirates to create financially viable brands. The team’s players are the club’s most valuable assets and Orlando Pirates ensures that it remunerates its players well, in line with domestic football standards.
Founded in 1937 Orlando Pirates has grown to become one of the country’s biggest soccer teams. With a string of successes over the years, Orlando Pirates has gained a strong followership all over the country. The club continues to perform well in the league and local cup competitions, with players brandishing stylish football.
Among the list of Orlando Pirates’ Top 10 Earners are midfielders Oupa Manyisa and Mpho Makola.
Oupa Manyisa:
Age: 27 years old
Position: Midfielder
Salary: Estimated to be R450 000 per month
After spending 4 seasons at the club Manyisa is worth an estimated R11 million. As one of the most utilised players in the Orlando Pirates starting eleven, Manyisa has won numerous accolades with the team.
Mpho Makola:
Age: 29 years old
Position: Midfielder
Salary: Estimated to be R350 000 per month
Since joining in July of 2012 after failing to make the first team at rivals Kaizer Chiefs, Makola has had a successful run with Orlando Pirates, gaining a reputation as one of the best players in the league.