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. Harry Kane

    Saudi money could tempt Kane, says Bayern chief

    Harry Kane may be enjoying a record-breaking stint in Germany, but Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness has admitted that a massive offer from Saudi Arabia could still change the striker's future. Despite the England captain being settled in Bavaria, the lure of Middle Eastern riches remains a factor the club cannot entirely ignore.

  2. Gusto defends 'top manager' Rosenior amid Chelsea crisis

    Chelsea defender Malo Gusto has jumped to the defence of under-fire head coach Liam Rosenior, insisting that the former Hull City boss is the right man to lead the club forward. Despite a dismal run of results that has seen the Blues plummet down the Premier League table, the French full-back is adamant that the squad remains firmly behind their manager.

  1. Casemiro 'open' to Inter Miami as transfer talks begin

    Inter Miami have reportedly made their first move to secure the signing of Manchester United veteran Casemiro, opening talks with the midfielder's representatives over a sensational summer switch to Major League Soccer. The Brazilian is said to be "open" to the project in Florida, which would see him link up with former rival Lionel Messi.

  2. USMNT legend rules out Ronaldo to MLS

    Cristiano Ronaldo has long been linked with a glamorous move to Major League Soccer to wrap up his legendary career, but one USMNT icon believes that ship has sailed. As the Portuguese superstar continues his journey in the Saudi Pro League, questions are being asked about whether he has the physical longevity to ever touch down in North America.

  3. FA slammed for 'bizarre' new Tuchel contract

    The Football Association has come under fire for their "desperate" decision to hand Thomas Tuchel a contract extension before he has even led England into a major tournament. Former Three Lions midfielder Danny Murphy has questioned the logic behind the move, suggesting the FA has left itself wide open to a PR disaster if the 2026 World Cup ends in failure.

  4. Thomas Tuchel England 2025

    'They play with fear' - Capello issues England warning to Tuchel

    Former England manager Fabio Capello has issued a scathing assessment of the Three Lions' mental fortitude, claiming that the squad is consistently held back by a paralysing "fear" on the big stage. The Italian tactician, who experienced his own World Cup heartbreak in 2010, warned Thomas Tuchel that psychological barriers and physical exhaustion remain the primary threats to England's hopes of ending their long wait for silverware.

  5. Carragher delivers brutal verdict on Arsenal attack

    Jamie Carragher has issued a stark warning to Arsenal following their Carabao Cup final defeat, claiming the squad lacks the "special" attacking talent required for the highest level. The Liverpool icon believes that while a first Premier League title in 22 years remains likely, Mikel Arteta must act decisively in the summer transfer window.