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. Gerrard's reveals exit advice for Salah after bombshell interview

    Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has opened up about the private counsel he offered Mohamed Salah following the forward’s public falling out with head coach Arne Slot. The attacker caused shockwaves across Merseyside earlier this season when he hit out at his manager’s selection decisions, but a text exchange with the club's greatest-ever captain helped steady the ship before his final farewell.

  2. Chelsea players turn on Fernandez amid Real Madrid transfer hints

    Enzo Fernandez has seen his popularity at Stamford Bridge plummet as the Argentine midfielder flirts with a move away from west London and is vocal in his frustrations with team-mates during a difficult run of results.. The World Cup winner's public comments regarding a move to Madrid have reportedly sparked friction in the Chelsea dressing room during a difficult period for the club.

  3. Tuchel compares Kane to Messi & Ronaldo

    Thomas Tuchel has leaped to the defence of his England side’s perceived over-reliance on Harry Kane, comparing the striker’s impact to that of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Three Lions fell to a 1-0 friendly defeat against Japan at Wembley on Tuesday, with the captain forced to watch from the sidelines after picking up a minor injury in training.

  1. Scaloni backs Messi for 1,000 career goals and World Cup last dance

    Lionel Scaloni has thrown his support behind Lionel Messi to potentially reach the historic 1,000 career goals milestone, while insisting the Argentina captain does have the "desire" to play at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking after a dominant friendly victory against Zambia, the Albiceleste boss emphasized that the Inter Miami star still possesses the hunger to compete at the very highest level despite already achieving his ultimate dream in Qatar.

  2. Elliot Anderson responds to Man City & United links

    Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson has broken his silence regarding the intense speculation linking him with a high-profile move to either Man City or United this summer. The 23-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign at the City Ground, cementing himself as one of the Premier League's most consistent performers.

  3. Bayern laugh off Olise exit links

    Bayern Munich chiefs have laughed off mounting speculation linking star winger Michael Olise with a blockbuster move to Real Madrid or Liverpool. The Bundesliga giants remain adamant that their prized asset is going nowhere, pointing to his long-term security at the Allianz Arena as a definitive barrier to any exit.