The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has urged African football clubs to enhance player salaries in a bid to reduce the ongoing exodus of talent from the continent.
For years, many African players have left their home countries in search of better opportunities abroad, particularly in Europe. This trend, Motsepe believes, has negatively impacted the quality of football on the continent.
“To keep the best African players here, we must pay them well. We need to offer competitive salaries,” Motsepe emphasized.
Drawing on his experience as the former president of South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, he revealed that the club had once successfully competed with European teams for talent.
“We were able to match offers from countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Greece. When we told players, ‘We can pay you the same,’ many chose to stay in Africa,” he explained.
Motsepe also acknowledged the financial challenges faced by many African clubs, commending them for their efforts.
“I am proud of what many of our clubs are doing. They are making tremendous sacrifices, often beyond their financial capacity,” he added.
Since stepping down from his role at Mamelodi Sundowns to assume the CAF presidency, Motsepe has led significant reforms aimed at elevating club competitions across the continent.
