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. FA slammed for 'bizarre' new Tuchel contract

    The Football Association has come under fire for their "desperate" decision to hand Thomas Tuchel a contract extension before he has even led England into a major tournament. Former Three Lions midfielder Danny Murphy has questioned the logic behind the move, suggesting the FA has left itself wide open to a PR disaster if the 2026 World Cup ends in failure.

  2. Thomas Tuchel England 2025

    'They play with fear' - Capello issues England warning to Tuchel

    Former England manager Fabio Capello has issued a scathing assessment of the Three Lions' mental fortitude, claiming that the squad is consistently held back by a paralysing "fear" on the big stage. The Italian tactician, who experienced his own World Cup heartbreak in 2010, warned Thomas Tuchel that psychological barriers and physical exhaustion remain the primary threats to England's hopes of ending their long wait for silverware.

  3. Carragher delivers brutal verdict on Arsenal attack

    Jamie Carragher has issued a stark warning to Arsenal following their Carabao Cup final defeat, claiming the squad lacks the "special" attacking talent required for the highest level. The Liverpool icon believes that while a first Premier League title in 22 years remains likely, Mikel Arteta must act decisively in the summer transfer window.

  4. Mbappe makes big Neymar World Cup claim

    Kylian Mbappe has joined the growing debate surrounding Neymar’s international future, insisting that he cannot imagine a World Cup without the Brazilian superstar. As pressure mounts on Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti to recall the veteran forward, Mbappe has backed his former team-mate to prove his fitness in time for the 2026 tournament.

  1. Rodri drops Real Madrid transfer bombshell

    Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sent shockwaves through the Etihad Stadium by refusing to rule out a blockbuster move to Real Madrid. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, who is currently working his way back to peak fitness following a serious knee injury, admitted that the lure of one of the world’s biggest clubs is difficult to resist.

  2. De la Fuente claims Yamal has been 'touched by magic'

    Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has hailed Lamine Yamal as a singular talent who has been "touched by magic", reinforcing the 18-year-old's status as the crown jewel of the national team. De la Fuente spoke glowingly of the Barcelona winger’s character and development, highlighting the RFEF's long-standing commitment to securing his international future.

  3. Everton roast Garnacho with 'not nice' TikTok video

    Everton have rubbed salt into Chelsea's wounds by mocking Alejandro Garnacho on social media following the Toffees' dominant 3-0 victory over the Blues. The Merseyside club's official TikTok account shared a compilation of the Argentine winger struggling to make an impact, captioned with a pointed remark about the atmosphere at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.