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. 📽️ | Pogba meets Bolt after returning to Monaco squad

    Monaco midfielder Paul Pogba’s road to redemption took a star-studded turn on Sunday as the Frenchman was spotted sharing a touchline embrace with sprint icon Usain Bolt. The meeting occurred at the Stade Louis-II just as the World Cup winner made his return to the matchday squad for a Ligue 1 clash with Marseille following a difficult four-month absence.

  1. Walcott blames Arteta's 'nervous energy' for Arsenal cup exit

    Former Arsenal man Theo Walcott has claimed that Mikel Arteta’s "nervous energy" on the touchline filtered through to his players during their disappointing FA Cup exit at Southampton. The Gunners saw their trophy dreams further diminished as a late Shea Charles strike secured a 2-1 victory for the Championship side on the south coast.

  2. Wilshere claims Spain would call Dowman up for World Cup

    Jack Wilshere has made a passionate case for Arsenal’s teenage sensation Max Dowman to be included in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, insisting that rivals like Spain would not hesitate to cap such a precocious talent. The former Gunners midfielder, who now manages Luton Town, believes the 16-year-old possesses a level of natural ability that even exceeds his own breakthrough years at the Emirates.