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. 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.

  1. 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.

  2. Bernardo Silva formally tells Man City he's leaving

    Bernardo Silva has reportedly taken the definitive step of formally informing Manchester City that he intends to leave the club at the end of the season. The Portuguese playmaker, who has been a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s success in Manchester, is now looking for a fresh challenge as his current contract approaches its expiration date.

  3. Neymar shines for Santos after Brazil snub

    Neymar has stepped up his return to full fitness by starring in a Santos training match, bagging a goal and an assist to remind onlookers of his enduring quality. The legendary forward was a high-profile omission from Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil squad, but this domestic display suggests he is determined to force his way back into the international reckoning.

  4. Missy Bo Kearns announces heartbreaking miscarriage

    England midfielder Missy Bo Kearns has shared the devastating news that she and her partner, Luton Town midfielder Liam Walsh, have lost their baby during pregnancy. The Aston Villa star, who only recently went public with the news that the couple were expecting their first child, took to social media to express her "heavy heart" following the tragic loss.