Durban City’s Emmanuel Jalai Smashes Payday Record For Zimbabwean Debut In South Africa

Jalai Becomes SA’s Highest-Paid Zimbabwean First Timer

Durban City’s capture of former Dynamos captain Emmanuel Jalai has set a new benchmark for Zimbabwean footballers moving to South Africa for the first time, with details emerging of a deal described as the most lucrative debut-season package ever offered to a player from Zimbabwe in the South African Premiership.

The move was confirmed on January 19, 2026, after days of speculation over Jalai’s future. His destination had been uncertain, with interest from local champions Scottland, improved terms proposed by Dynamos, and offers from clubs in the Middle East and North Africa. In the end, Durban City moved decisively and secured his signature.

According toThe Herald, the South African side tabled a package that dwarfed Jalai’s earnings in Zimbabwe and reshaped the negotiations entirely.

“Yes, it will be around that range, and the sign-on fee also is slightly above some of the highest sign-on fees from the ambitious clubs in Zimbabwe, which is very good for him,” a source close to the deal said.

A Deal That Changed Everything

Sources familiar with the agreement say Jalai will earn more than six times his previous monthly salary at Dynamos, excluding performance-related bonuses. His wages place him in the bracket of Premiership players earning above US$5,000 per month (approximately R95,000).

The contract runs for two years, with an option to extend his stay by a further two years, potentially keeping him at the club until 2030.

While Durban City have not disclosed exact figures, indications point to a signing-on fee estimated between US$20,000 and US$30,000 (approximately R380,000 to R570,000).

“So the two-year deal, with a two-year extension option, was based on a good package,” the source said.
“But what mattered more was the opportunity to explore football outside Zimbabwe and gain new experiences.”

Why Durban City Won The Race

Although Durban City are not traditionally counted among the league’s highest spenders, insiders say the offer reflected how highly they rate the Zimbabwean international.

The club’s long-standing interest also played a role.

“Durban City were the most consistent and their respect for the player was clear,” another source said.
“They didn’t just offer good money. They showed they truly valued him.”

Jalai recently featured for the Warriors at the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco, where he played key roles against Egypt and Angola, performances that reinforced his reputation against top-level opposition.

Leaving As A Dynamos Leader

Jalai departs Dynamos after six years, leaving as a central figure during one of the club’s most difficult periods, including a dramatic relegation escape on the final day of the season.

In a farewell message shared on social media, he paid tribute to the club and its supporters.

“The honour of wearing the armband of this great club is a memory that will live with me forever,” Jalai wrote.
“I will FOREVER remain one of you. My love for the club will never die.”

Now settled in South Africa, Jalai begins a new chapter at Durban City, bringing experience, leadership, and the weight of expectation that comes with a record-setting move.