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. Slot explains why he didn't bring Salah on against PSG

    Liverpool manager Arne Slot has raised eyebrows by explaining that his decision to leave Mohamed Salah on the bench against Paris Saint-Germain was because his side was in "survival mode". Despite trailing 2-0 and failing to register a single shot on target, the Egyptian superstar remained an unused substitute throughout the Champions League quarter-final first leg.

  2. Henry explains why 'people don't understand' Olise

    France legend Thierry Henry has offered a fascinating insight into the unique talent of Michael Olise, claiming the winger operates on a mental plane that many struggle to comprehend. The Bayern Munich star was in inspired form during his team's 2-1 win against Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie, once again proving why he is considered one of Europe's elite attackers.

  1. Vinicius Junior

    Van der Vaart tears into 'horrible' Vinicius

    Former Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has launched a stinging attack on Vinicius Junior, labelling the Brazilian winger's behaviour on the pitch as "horrible". The Dutchman did not hold back after watching the forward's antics during a high-stakes Champions League clash against Bayern Munich at the Bernabeu.

  2. Garnacho in line for summer transfer to surprise club

    Alejandro Garnacho’s time at Chelsea could be coming to a premature end as reports in South America link the winger with a summer transfer to a surprise club. Despite arriving from Manchester United with high expectations, the Argentina international has struggled to find his best form at Stamford Bridge and could now be offered an escape route back to his homeland.

  3. Arbeloa rages after Tah tackle leaves Mbappe with nasty gash in leg

    Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa was left fuming after seeing his star forward Kylian Mbappe subjected to a late challenge during Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg clash with Bayern Munich. The Spanish coach insisted that Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah should have been sent off for a studs-up tackle that left the Frenchman with a visible gash on his leg.

  4. Will Kane play against Real Madrid? Huge injury update

    Bayern Munich are facing a race against time to have Harry Kane leading the line for their monumental Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid. The England captain has been struggling with an ankle issue that kept him out of domestic action at the weekend, leaving fans and coaching staff anxious ahead of the trip to the Santiago Bernabeu.