Muhammad Zaki

News editor

His love for football was rooted in Chelsea, specifically when he was captivated by Gianfranco Zola—not only for his magic on the field but also because the legend's name sounded so pleasant to his ears. A few years later, the 2002 World Cup introduced him to Oliver Kahn, the goalkeeper who became Zaki's second love in football, even though Germany went home empty-handed at that time.

The most memorable moment for Zaki happened much closer to home: standing in the south stands of Maguwoharjo, witnessing PSS Sleman lift the 2013 First Division trophy. The euphoria of victory turned bitter as dualism prevented Si Elang Jawa from being promoted.

Zaki's areas of expertise at GOAL include:

  • Analysis of European football tactics, including the Premier League and Champions League
  • Coverage of player transfer news & club financial regulation dynamics
  • International football editorials: player biographies, legend stories, and hidden young talents
  • Player rating & performance assessment with both analytical and narrative approaches

Zaki's All-Time XI (4-2-3-1)

Oliver Kahn; Cafu, John Terry, Franz Beckenbauer, Paolo Maldini; Xavi Hernandez, Claude Makelele; Lionel Messi, Eric Cantona, Eden Hazard; Marco van Basten

Articles by Muhammad Zaki
  1. 'No doubt' - Carrick WILL be permanent Man Utd manager, claims Carragher

    Manchester United are on the brink of a return to the Champions League after Michael Carrick’s transformative spell as interim boss continued with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Brentford. The Red Devils have been revitalised since the former midfielder took the reins in January, prompting Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher to claim that he will "certainly" be given the job on a permanent basis.

  2. Barcelona approach Atleti over Alvarez transfer

    Barcelona have reportedly opened talks with Atletico Madrid regarding a potential blockbuster move for Julian Alvarez this summer. The Blaugrana have identified the Argentine World Cup winner as a leading target to replace Robert Lewandowski, who is set to leave the club as a free agent.

  3. Chelsea hold talks with Iraola's representatives

    Chelsea have stepped up their search for a new head coach by reportedly making contact with the representatives of outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola. The Spaniard, who has earned rave reviews for his work on the south coast, has emerged as a serious contender to fill the Stamford Bridge hot seat following the departure of Liam Rosenior.

  4. Real Madrid issue Mbappe injury update

    Real Madrid have confirmed the extent of the injury sustained by Kylian Mbappe during Friday night’s draw against Real Betis, amid fears that the Frenchman could miss the pivotal upcoming Clasico against Barcelona. The striker requested to be substituted in the closing stages of the La Liga clash after feeling discomfort in his left leg.

  1. Police confirm 16 Leeds fans reported after homophobic chanting

    Leeds United's FA Cup dreams ended in disappointment at Wembley, but the fallout from the semi-final defeat to Chelsea is continuing off the pitch. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that more than a dozen supporters are facing potential legal action following reports of discriminatory behaviour during the high-profile fixture.

  2. Upgrade on Gyokeres? Arsenal ‘keeping an eye' on Endrick

    Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close watch on Endrick's uncertain future at Real Madrid as Mikel Arteta looks to add more firepower to his attacking ranks this summer following a series of inconsistent performances in front of goal. The Brazilian sensation is currently rebuilding his reputation on loan at Lyon, but a permanent departure from the Bernabeu is no longer being ruled out.

  3. Explained: Why Neymar left out of 980-sticker World Cup album

    Neymar has been the face of Brazilian football for over a decade, but the mercurial forward has suffered a major blow ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 34-year-old has been officially omitted from the iconic Panini sticker album, marking the first time in four editions that he will not be featured among the world's elite players.