Goal.com

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. Simeone wants Greenwood to join him at Atletico

    Diego Simeone has reportedly identified Mason Greenwood as the ideal addition to his Atletico Madrid frontline as the Spanish giants prepare for a potential shake-up in attack. The English forward has been a revelation in France, prompting Marseille to slap a massive price tag on their prized asset ahead of the summer window.

  2. Yan Diomande RB Leipzig 2025

    Diomande drops major hint he's going to snub Liverpool

    Liverpool’s summer transfer plans have been rocked after top target Yan Diomande openly confessed his lifelong affection for Paris Saint-Germain. The RB Leipzig sensation has been tipped as the man to replace Mohamed Salah at Anfield, but his latest comments suggest his heart is set on the Parc des Princes.

  3. Perez CONFIRMS first Madrid signings and Vinicius future

    Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has sent shockwaves through the football world by confirming the club's first major signings for the upcoming season. Speaking ahead of the crucial presidential elections, the 79-year-old incumbent revealed that both a defensive powerhouse and a legendary manager are set to arrive at the Bernabeu.

  1. Done deal! Madrid to sign World Cup-bound right-back

    Real Madrid have moved decisively to secure their first major signing of the summer, reaching a full agreement to bring Inter's Denzel Dumfries to the Bernabeu. The Spanish giants have opted to bypassed lengthy negotiations by triggering a remarkably low release clause to land the Netherlands international.

  2. Barca transfer boost! Update on Cancelo’s price tag

    Barcelona have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of a permanent deal for Joao Cancelo, with Al-Hilal reportedly softening their financial demands. The Portuguese international has made it clear he has no intention of returning to the Saudi Pro League after a successful loan spell in Catalonia.

  3. Man Utd agree £38m deal for Ederson as contract details revealed

    Manchester United have made a statement of intent in the transfer market by reportedly reaching a £38m agreement to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson. With personal terms finalised on a long-term contract, the Brazilian is poised to become the first major acquisition of the Michael Carrick era as the Red Devils look to transform their engine room ahead of the new campaign.

  4. Arsenal linked with surprise Rashford move

    Arsenal could be set to launch a sensational move for Marcus Rashford as Mikel Arteta looks to overhaul his attacking options this summer. The Manchester United forward has enjoyed a productive loan spell at Barcelona, but financial constraints in Catalonia have opened the door for a potential return to the Premier League with the Gunners.