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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. 'Of course it hurts!' - Trent speaks on Liverpool abuse following Real move

    Trent Alexander-Arnold has opened up on the toxic atmosphere that followed his high-profile departure from Liverpool to Real Madrid, revealing the devastating personal toll of being branded a "rat" by his own suporters. The England international, who ended a 20-year association with the Reds last summer, has addressed the vitriol he faced upon his return to Anfield for the first time.

  1. Mourinho slams Vinicius 'bullying era' in Real return

    Jose Mourinho has marked his sensational return to the Real Madrid dugout with a fiery defence of Vinicius Junior, claiming the Brazilian superstar is being subjected to "bullying" by both opponents and supporters. The legendary Portuguese coach, who officially began his second stint in the Spanish capital on Saturday, witnessed his side secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Espanyol.

  2. Espi saves Mourinho in Madrid return

    Jose Mourinho’s second act at Real Madrid began in the most dramatic fashion possible as debutant Carlos Espi struck a 90th-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Espanyol. It was a night that encapsulated the "Special One" experience, featuring early dominance, a frustrating setback, and a late twist that kept his perfect opening-day record intact.

  3. Fernandes slams Man Utd after Hull loss

    Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has hit out at his side's lack of progression after a demoralising 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Hull City. The Portuguese midfielder claimed the Red Devils are repeating the same errors that plagued their previous campaign as Michael Carrick’s permanent tenure began in nightmare fashion.

  4. Spurs agree record-breaking £85m deal to sign Savinho

    Tottenham Hotspur have reached a sensational agreement to sign Man City winger Savinho in a deal that could eventually be worth up to £85 million. The Brazilian star is the latest high-profile addition in a major spending spree for Roberto De Zerbi’s side, arriving as part of an aggressive squad overhaul following the club's recent struggles, with Spurs now also eyeing a raid on another City for forward Omar Marmoush.