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
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has launched an eyebrow-raising defense of his side's recent performances following a frustrating 0-0 draw against Everton. Despite Spurs failing to score in their opening four Premier League fixtures for the first time in the club's history, the Italian tactician was keen to highlight his team's defensive improvements.
Erling Haaland etched his name into Manchester derby history as 10-man Manchester City maintained their flawless start to the latest Premier League season. An incredibly controversial VAR decision helped secure all three points for Enzo Maresca's side at Manchester United's Old Trafford, overcoming the massive hurdle of Phil Foden's early red card.
Manchester City may have secured the local bragging rights with a gritty 1-0 victory over Manchester United, but the fallout from a heated derby at the Etihad is only just beginning. Former City defender Micah Richards led the criticism against the officiating, branding the afternoon a "bad day for referees" following a string of high-profile VAR interventions.
Lisandro Martinez has sent a clear message to the Manchester United hierarchy regarding the potential of 20-year-old defender Leny Yoro. The Argentine international was left stunned by the youngster's performance during their recent European outing, tipping him to become a cornerstone of the club for years to come.
Lisandro Martinez has broken his silence on his ongoing rivalry with Erling Haaland ahead of Manchester United's high-stakes clash with Manchester City this weekend. The Argentine defender has established himself as a formidable opponent for the Norwegian striker, but he is refusing to rest on his previous successes as the two prepare to lock horns once again at Old Trafford.
The football world was rocked by reports suggesting Pep Guardiola could make a sensational return to the dugout to manage former rival Mohamed Salah in Turkey. Following the former Liverpool forward's move to Trabzonspor, speculation intensified that the Man City legend was the club's primary target to lead their new era of dominance.
Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has offered a firm response to Michael Carrick regarding the lopsided fixture schedule ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby. While Manchester United face a tight turnaround, Maresca insists that elite teams must simply find a way to cope with the demands of European competition.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has been forced to explain his handling of Bruno Fernandes after the club captain was spotted limping following the midweek victory over Sabah. Despite making several changes to his side during the Champions League clash, the Portuguese playmaker remained on the pitch for the full duration of the contest.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has laughed off suggestions from Manchester City midfielder Elliot Anderson that the blue half of the city currently reigns supreme. The Red Devils boss is preparing for a high-stakes derby clash that could define his side's aspirations for the remainder of the season.
Arsenal icon Emmanuel Petit believes the Gunners may have actually done themselves a favour by failing to land Real Madrid sensation Vinicius Jr during the summer transfer window. Despite Mikel Arteta's clear desire to add a world-class attacking threat to his Premier League-winning squad, Petit suggests the Brazilian's temperament could have disrupted the harmony at the Emirates.
Ruben Amorim has reignited his long-standing feud with Manchester United's iconic former players, suggesting they are stuck in a bygone era. The Portuguese tactician, who recently took the reins at AC Milan, feels the constant criticism from the media was detached from the modern realities of the club.
Jamie Carragher has sparked controversy by claiming Michael Carrick is effectively an "interim" manager at Manchester United who would never have been considered for the role by any other elite club. Despite a successful caretaker spell that secured Champions League football, the Liverpool legend remains entirely unconvinced by the former midfielder's long-term credentials at Old Trafford.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised the flourishing partnership between Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers following their match-winning impact against Leeds United. The Blues boss believes their long-standing friendship, dating back to their Manchester City academy days, is acting as a catalyst for Chelsea's attacking improvement.
Mikel Arteta has laid down a fresh challenge to his Arsenal squad, revealing a secret internal target to transform the reigning champions into the Premier League's ultimate entertainers. Despite a perfect start to their title defence, the Gunners boss is demanding even more "flair" and clinical efficiency from his stars as they prepare for a difficult trip to face Sunderland.
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has broken his silence on a controversial viral meme that depicts him as a military dictator. The France captain expressed his concern over the trend, suggesting it highlights a worrying lack of historical and political understanding among modern football fans.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has expressed his shock following pointed criticism regarding the departures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli during a hectic summer window. The Gunners boss found himself in the firing line after both players left north London under a cloud of frustration and public questioning.
Saudi Pro League stars Sadio Mane and Julian Quinones have earned landmark nominations for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following superb domestic and international campaigns. The Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah forward duo lead a strong RSL contingent recognised by France Football, with goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Edouard Mendy also shortlisted for the Yashin Trophy.
Manchester United coach Darren Fletcher was forced to take matters into his own hands after witnessing a section of the club’s support turn toxic following their Champions League triumph. The former Red Devils midfielder confronted a group of fan who had allegedly directed abusive language at players for not stopping to sign autograph on memorabilia.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed a major selection boost ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The Premier League leaders are looking to maintain their perfect start to the domestic campaign while ending a disappointing recent run at the home of their local rivals, Man United.
Mikel Arteta has revealed his bizarre methods for preparing Arsenal for unexpected disruptions after their Champions League plans were thrown into chaos. The Gunners' flight to Italy ahead of Napoli clash was severely delayed by UK air traffic control issues, but the manager insisted his squad was ready. He admitted to deliberately sabotaging pre-season schedules to ensure his players could handle sudden adversity without complaining.
