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. Federico Chiesa

    Chiesa 'determined' to stay at Liverpool after Slot exit

    Federico Chiesa is reportedly ready to fight for his future at Liverpool following the departure of Arne Slot. Despite a frustrating spell on Merseyside that saw him marginalised under the previous regime, the Italian international is determined to make his mark under the incoming leadership of Andoni Iraola.

  2. Amorim is back! Ex-Utd boss agrees AC Milan move

    Ruben Amorim is set for a return to the touchline after reaching an agreement to become the next manager of AC Milan, according to reports. The Portuguese tactician, who has been out of work since his dismissal from Manchester United in January, is expected to sign an initial two-year deal to replace Massimiliano Allegri at San Siro.

  1. 📽️ | Amad stuns Ecuador to end 12-year Ivory Coast wait

    Amad Diallo proved to be the hero for Ivory Coast as his dramatic 90th-minute strike secured a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their 2026 World Cup opener. The Manchester United winger stepped off the bench to end the Elephants' 12-year wait for a win on the world stage while simultaneously snapping Ecuador's remarkable 19-game unbeaten streak.

  2. Arsenal-linked Bouaddi responds to PL transfer talk

    Morocco teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi has addressed mounting speculation regarding a potential move to the Premier League following a stellar performance at the 2026 World Cup opening. The Lille teenager was the talk of the tournament after dominating the midfield during the Atlas Lions' 1-1 draw with Brazil at MetLife Stadium.

  3. Canada accused of ignoring 'international laws' as Ghana vow to fight over Partey ban

    Ghana’s government has launched a scathing attack on Canadian authorities, accusing them of flouting international laws after Thomas Partey was denied entry into the country due to ongoing legal proceedings over rape charges against him. The Villarreal midfielder was expected to lead his nation in their 2026 World Cup opener against Panama, but he remains stranded at the team's base camp in Boston following a visa rejection stemming from the allegations.