A fresh ranking of Africa’s highest-paid football coaches highlights the financial commitment of national federations aiming for continental and international success. Published by Foot Africa, the list is dominated by some familiar names and features a surprising absence: Aliou Cissé, former head coach of Senegal’s national team.
Petkovic Tops the List
Leading the ranking is Vladimir Petkovic, head coach of Algeria, earning €135,000 per month.
The Bosnian-Swiss tactician, who replaced Djamel Belmadi in 2024 after Algeria’s disappointing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, commands the highest salary, reflecting the Algerian Federation’s lofty ambitions for their team.
Shared Second Spot: Broos and Faé
At €75,000 per month, Hugo Broos and Emerse Faé share second place. Broos, who led Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2017, is tasked with reviving South Africa’s fortunes on the international stage.
Faé, a former midfielder for Côte d’Ivoire, assumed the Elephants’ managerial role in 2023 and is seen as a key figure in their resurgence.
Regragui Secures Fourth
Morocco’s Walid Regragui occupies fourth position with a monthly salary of €70,000. Regragui’s leadership during Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup has cemented his place as a vital figure for the Atlas Lions, ensuring his compensation reflects the nation’s high expectations.
Appiah Represents Sudan
Rounding out the top five is James Kwesi Appiah, the Ghanaian head coach of Sudan, earning €48,000 per month. Despite a modest salary compared to his peers, Appiah embodies Sudan’s ambitions to make strides on the continental stage.
Cissé’s Departure from Senegal
Conspicuously absent from the list is Aliou Cissé, whose tenure as Senegal’s head coach ended recently.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) parted ways with Cissé following what were deemed unsatisfactory results with the Lions of Teranga.
Cissé’s exit marks a significant shift in Senegalese football, closing a chapter defined by his leadership, including AFCON triumphs.
His next professional move remains uncertain, with fans and analysts awaiting news of his future endeavors.
The Financial Stakes of Success
This ranking underscores the rising financial stakes in African football as federations invest heavily in coaching expertise to achieve success in tournaments like AFCON and beyond. As national teams vie for supremacy, these salaries reflect the growing ambition and competitive spirit in the sport across the continent.
