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. Ronaldo told to 'pack it in' instead of joining Messi in an MLS move

    Cristiano Ronaldo has been urged to "pack it in" and retire from professional football following the 2026 World Cup rather than attempting a final career move to the United States. Former Arsenal and Sweden midfielder Anders Limpar believes the Al-Nassr superstar should focus on protecting his unmatched legacy rather than testing himself in a league that might provide a harsh reality check.

  2. Salah sends emotional farewell message to Robertson

    Mohamed Salah has penned a deeply personal and emotional farewell to Andy Robertson after the Scottish left-back confirmed he will leave Anfield this summer. The two icons have been the cornerstones of the most successful period in the club's modern history, but both are now set to depart at the end of the current campaign.

  3. Madrid icon Marcelo: Messi tougher than Ronaldo

    The age-old debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has seen another heavyweight chime in with a definitive verdict. Despite spending nearly a decade as a teammate and close friend of the Portuguese superstar at Real Madrid, former Brazilian international Marcelo has revealed who truly caused him the most problems on the pitch.

  4. Maguire revealed as Man Utd's best golfer

    Harry Maguire may be known for his defensive resilience on the pitch, but his Manchester United team-mates have revealed that he is also the undisputed king of the fairways at Old Trafford. With the Masters Tournament beginning on April 9, several Red Devils stars have been discussing their love for golf and identifying the biggest talent in the dressing room.

  5. Salah told to move to MLS & 'be a megastar like Lionel Messi'

    Liverpool icon Vladimir Smicer has urged Mohamed Salah to snub the riches of Saudi Arabia in favour of a move to MLS, suggesting the Egyptian could reach the same heights of global superstardom as Lionel Messi in the United States. The former Reds midfielder also believes he has identified the tactical reason behind Salah's uncharacteristic dip in form under Arne Slot this season.

  6. Leeds striker 'very interested' in La Liga transfer

    Leeds United are prepared to sanction a permanent exit for Mateo Joseph this summer as the forward sets his sights on a long-term future in Spain. Despite the youngster's potential, he does not figure in Daniel Farke's plans as the Whites look to reshape their squad for another Premier League campaign.

  1. Slot explains why he didn't bring Salah on against PSG

    Liverpool manager Arne Slot has raised eyebrows by explaining that his decision to leave Mohamed Salah on the bench against Paris Saint-Germain was because his side was in "survival mode". Despite trailing 2-0 and failing to register a single shot on target, the Egyptian superstar remained an unused substitute throughout the Champions League quarter-final first leg.

  2. Henry explains why 'people don't understand' Olise

    France legend Thierry Henry has offered a fascinating insight into the unique talent of Michael Olise, claiming the winger operates on a mental plane that many struggle to comprehend. The Bayern Munich star was in inspired form during his team's 2-1 win against Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie, once again proving why he is considered one of Europe's elite attackers.