Lyle Brent Foster is a South African professional footballer known for his versatility and skill as a forward. Playing for Burnley FC in the Premier League and representing the South African national team, Foster has steadily built a reputation as a promising talent in European and international football.
Quick Facts of Lyle Foster
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lyle Brent Foster |
| Date of Birth | September 3, 2000 |
| Age (2025) | 25 years |
| Place of Birth | Carletonville, South Africa |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Position | Forward / Winger |
| Current Club | Burnley FC |
| Jersey Number | 9 |
| Previous Clubs | Orlando Pirates, Monaco, Cercle Brugge, Vitória de Guimarães, Westerlo |
| Nationality | South African |
| Net Worth | Estimated $400,000 |
| Salary | Approx. £1.69 million per season (£32,500 weekly) |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Relationship Status | Private / Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life and Background
Lyle Foster was born on September 3, 2000, in Carletonville, South Africa. Raised in a football-loving family, he developed a passion for the sport at a young age. His early years were spent honing his skills in local youth setups, which laid the foundation for a professional career. Foster grew up inspired by South African football legends and developed the determination that would later define his career.
Club Career
Orlando Pirates (2017–2019)
- Promoted to the first team in the 2017–18 season.
- Made professional debut on September 15, 2017, against Maritzburg United.
- Scored his first goal on January 22, 2018, versus Polokwane City.
- Named among The Guardian’s top 60 most promising young players globally.
Monaco & Cercle Brugge (2019–2020)
- Signed with Monaco in January 2019, starting with the reserve team.
- Loaned to Cercle Brugge for the 2019–20 season.
Vitória de Guimarães & Westerlo (2020–2023)
- Joined Vitória de Guimarães in August 2020 for €1.2 million.
- Loaned to Westerlo in 2021, later signed permanently in 2022 with a four-year deal.
Burnley FC (2023–Present)
- Signed in January 2023 for a record €7 million transfer fee for a South African player.
- Extended contract in October 2023 for five years, running until 2028.
- Overcame a mental health setback in November 2023 and returned to score crucial goals.
International Career
- Represented South Africa at U17, U20, U23, and senior levels.
- Senior team debut in 2018; has scored 8 goals in 23 appearances.
- Continues to be a key figure for Bafana Bafana, South Africa’s national team.
Playing Style and Strengths
Foster is primarily a forward but can also operate as a winger. Known for his pace, aerial ability, and finishing, he combines technical skill with tactical awareness, making him a versatile threat in attack.
Personal Life
- Keeps his personal life private, focusing on football.
- No publicly available information on relationships or marital status.
- Known for professionalism and dedication to both club and country.
Net Worth and Salary
- Estimated Net Worth: $400,000
- Salary at Burnley: £1.69 million per season (~£32,500 weekly)
- Previous salaries reflect his career growth from Monaco, Cercle Brugge, Vitória de Guimarães, and Westerlo.
Achievements and Highlights
- The Guardian top 60 young footballers globally (2018).
- Record transfer fee for a South African player to Burnley (€7–10 million).
- Key contributor to Burnley’s promotion and Premier League campaigns.
