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. Chelsea confirm Alonso appointment with start date revealed

    Chelsea have officially announced the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new manager, bringing the former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder back to the Premier League. The Spaniard has signed a long-term deal at Stamford Bridge as the BlueCo ownership group looks to usher in a new era of stability and success following a turbulent campaign.

  2. Allegri responds to Ibrahimovic row at AC Milan

    Massimiliano Allegri has broken his silence regarding reports of a sensational fallout with AC Milan advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic. As the Rossoneri's season threatens to implode, the veteran coach has played down the severity of the boardroom friction while admitting that failing to secure Champions League football would be a disaster for the club.

  3. Carrick plans to harness player 'ego' at Man Utd

    Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick believes that elite players must possess an ego to succeed, insisting he wants to channel that individual pride into a collective force at Old Trafford. As the Red Devils gear up for their final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest, Carrick is focused on maintaining the momentum that has secured Champions League football.

  4. Robert Lewandowski

    Lewandowski urged to join Man Utd after Barca exit

    Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United to complete an audacious swoop for Robert Lewandowski following the striker's official confirmation that he will leave Barcelona. The Red Devils legend believes the veteran forward could provide the essential experience needed to mentor the club's younger talents next season.

  1. Official: Lewandowski to leave Barcelona

    Barcelona have officially confirmed that Robert Lewandowski will leave the club at the end of the 2025-26 campaign, bringing the curtain down on a sensational four-year stint in Catalonia. The veteran striker, who has remained a clinical presence in La Liga since his arrival from Bayern Munich, is set to bid farewell to the home supporters during Sunday’s clash against Real Betis.

  2. Kylian Mbappe

    Explained: Why Mbappe's frustration boiled over at Real Madrid

    Kylian Mbappe’s Real Madrid dream has spiralled into a public nightmare. While his explosive outburst laid bare a fractured dressing room and claims of a shocking demotion, the true cause of his misery apparently runs much deeper. Marca reports a ruthless behind-the-scenes tactical shift and a drastic change in philosophy have stripped away his power, leaving the superstar sidelined.

  3. Mainoo addresses Amorim treatment & possible Man Utd exit

    Kobbie Mainoo has opened up on the difficult period he endured under former Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim, admitting that he considered his future at Old Trafford after being frozen out of the side. The England international was frequently left on the sidelines during the Portuguese’s tenure but has since undergone a dramatic transformation following the appointment of Michael Carrick.