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. Official: David Alaba to leave Real Madrid

    Real Madrid have officially confirmed that veteran defender David Alaba will leave the club as a free agent at the end of the current campaign. The 33-year-old’s five-year tenure in the Spanish capital will conclude when his contract expires this summer, marking the departure of another high-profile leader from the Bernabeu dressing room.

  2. Stones move ruled out as Bayern official provides latest on Gordon

    Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has broken his silence on the club's summer recruitment strategy, addressing links to some of the Premier League's biggest stars. While the Bavarian giants are actively working on high-profile reinforcements to bolster their attacking ranks, a certain defensive target has officially been struck off the list.

  3. Jose Mourinho Benfica 2026

    Mourinho asks Real Madrid to sign €50m midfielder

    Jose Mourinho has reportedly already identified his first major transfer target in the form of Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand as he prepares for a sensational return to Real Madrid. The Portuguese tactician, who is set to replace the departing Alvaro Arbeloa, is also exploring a backroom shake-up that could see club legend Toni Kroos join his coaching staff.

  1. Man Utd closing in on completing £43m Ederson deal

    Manchester United are closing in on their first major signing of the summer after making a significant breakthrough in negotiations for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. The Brazilian star is reportedly on the verge of a move to Old Trafford in a deal worth over £43 million, marking a statement start to the transfer window for the Red Devils.

  2. Zaire-Emery: PSG must fear Arsenal in UCL final

    Paris Saint-Germain star Warren Zaire-Emery has called for total focus as his side prepares for a historic Champions League final showdown against Arsenal, as the 20-year-old midfielder believes the clash in Budapest will be won and lost on the finest of margins against the newly-crowned Premier League champions.