Moataz Elgammal

News editor

Working as a football journalist was my first childhood dream. I became a journalist and a member of the Egyptian Journalists Syndicate, but covering topics far from the world of sports until the opportunity came in early 2020 when I joined Kooora, and then GOAL.

My memories with football began with Zinedine Zidane's historic triumph in the 1998 World Cup and France's unforgettable win over Brazil in the final, along with the Egyptian league matches and the rivalry between Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily during that era.

I don't support a specific team in Europe, but I enjoyed watching Milan with "Maldini, Gattuso, Kaka, Pirlo" and was amazed by Barcelona with "Busquets, Iniesta, Xavi, Neymar, Villa, Messi, Suarez", before following Mohamed Salah in his exceptional career with Fiorentina, Roma, and Liverpool.

My unforgettable sports moment was Mohamed Aboutrika's goal in Al Ahly's victory over Sfaxien in the 2006 CAF Champions League final.

My ideal lineup: Buffon; Cafu - Van Dijk - Maldini - Roberto Carlos; Pirlo - Zidane - Iniesta - Kaka; Cristiano Ronaldo - Messi

Articles by Moataz Elgammal
  1. Olise hailed as Bundesliga's best signing in 10 years

    Former World Cup winner Christoph Kramer has heaped immense praise on Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, describing the French attacker as the greatest Bundesliga transfer in the past decade. Kramer lauded the young star's incredible decision-making and unprecedented statistical output, insisting his exceptional performances are still not receiving enough global recognition.

  2. Ex-Barca director backs Xavi in Messi return row

    The controversy surrounding Lionel Messi's failed return to Barcelona in 2023 has not yet died down. Former sporting director Mateu Alemany has publicly supported Xavi Hernandez's explosive claims that the club had league approval to re-sign the Argentine star. This directly contradicts the official narrative from incumbent president Joan Laporta and La Liga chief Javier Tebas ahead of the elections.

  3. War keeps PSG president from Chelsea clash

    Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi remains stranded in Doha due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East severely disrupting international travel. With flights grounded and airspace restricted following recent strikes, the club chief faces a frantic race against time to attend PSG's crucial Champions League round-of-16 tie against Chelsea at the Parc des Princes.

  4. Ex-Madrid star's debut could see club hit with points deduction

    Wesley Sneijder’s highly anticipated return to football with Dutch amateur side OSM’75 has quickly turned sour. Following a one-nil victory over league leaders Focus’07, the fourth-tier club now face a potential points deduction. Rivals claim OSM’75 broke the rules by using four substitution windows instead of the permitted three, leaving the KNVB to investigate the matter.

  5. Disasi: Chelsea 'bomb squad' treatment was tough

    French centre-back Axel Disasi has finally lifted the lid on his turbulent and frustrating period at Stamford Bridge before securing a crucial winter loan move to West Ham United. The defender opened up about his time in the infamous Chelsea 'bomb squad' and the mental resilience required to survive being frozen out, while revelling in his recent career revival at the Hammers.

  6. Andre breaks silence on failed Milan move

    Corinthians starlet Andre has finally addressed the collapse of his high-profile move to AC Milan, insisting that while playing in Europe remains a long-term goal, he is content staying with the Brazilian giants. The 19-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in South America, attracting heavy interest from the Rossoneri during the recent transfer window before negotiations were abruptly cut short by the club hierarchy.

  1. End of an England era as Walker confirms retirement

    After an illustrious international journey spanning 15 years, legendary defender Kyle Walker has officially announced his retirement from the England national team. The 35-year-old Burnley star leaves behind a remarkable legacy of 96 caps, having played a pivotal role in transforming the Three Lions' fortunes across five major tournaments and multiple historic finals.

  2. Aluko wins Joey Barton libel case

    Former England international Eni Aluko has secured a landmark legal victory against ex-manager Joey Barton following months of relentless social media harassment. The High Court ruling brings an end to a distressing period for the Lionesses hero, holding her abuser financially accountable for a deeply personal and defamatory public campaign on social media.

  3. Infantino: World Cup will be a ‘total party’

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists the 2026 World Cup will be a flawless global celebration, brushing aside mounting anxieties over escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Despite the USA and Israel conflict with Iran disrupting football calendars, causing widespread visa chaos, and forcing Iraq to request a delay, FIFA remains solely focused on record ticket sales.

  4. Ancelotti names Neymar in Brazil squad

    Neymar has been included in Brazil's expansive preliminary squad for the upcoming friendlies, giving the Santos star a lifeline ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, with Carlo Ancelotti watching, the legendary forward faces immense pressure. Missing the next match for load control, he has just one game left to prove his fitness and secure his spot in the final selection.

  5. Flick responds to Xavi claims

    Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has carefully navigated the fallout from Xavi Hernandez's controversial remarks. Speaking ahead of this week's Champions League clash, the German coach refused to be drawn into a public dispute, opting instead to protect the privacy of their conversations while maintaining his team's focus amid the mounting political tension surrounding the club.

  6. Bayern chief addresses Neuer contract uncertainty

    Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has confirmed the club is in no rush to extend Manuel Neuer’s contract. As the legendary 39-year-old goalkeeper approaches his 40th birthday, the hierarchy is waiting for him to evaluate his physical condition. With Jonas Urbig impressing in relief, the club remains calm about the future transition between the sticks.