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. Done deal! Madrid to sign World Cup-bound right-back

    Real Madrid have moved decisively to secure their first major signing of the summer, reaching a full agreement to bring Inter's Denzel Dumfries to the Bernabeu. The Spanish giants have opted to bypassed lengthy negotiations by triggering a remarkably low release clause to land the Netherlands international.

  2. Barca transfer boost! Update on Cancelo’s price tag

    Barcelona have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of a permanent deal for Joao Cancelo, with Al-Hilal reportedly softening their financial demands. The Portuguese international has made it clear he has no intention of returning to the Saudi Pro League after a successful loan spell in Catalonia.

  3. Man Utd agree £38m deal for Ederson as contract details revealed

    Manchester United have made a statement of intent in the transfer market by reportedly reaching a £38m agreement to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson. With personal terms finalised on a long-term contract, the Brazilian is poised to become the first major acquisition of the Michael Carrick era as the Red Devils look to transform their engine room ahead of the new campaign.

  4. Arsenal linked with surprise Rashford move

    Arsenal could be set to launch a sensational move for Marcus Rashford as Mikel Arteta looks to overhaul his attacking options this summer. The Manchester United forward has enjoyed a productive loan spell at Barcelona, but financial constraints in Catalonia have opened the door for a potential return to the Premier League with the Gunners.

  1. Hojlund Napoli Udinese Serie A

    Hojlund sick of McTominay overhead kick taunts

    Scott McTominay has revealed he is showing no mercy to Napoli team-mate Rasmus Hojlund following Scotland’s dramatic path to the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder, who has become a cult hero in Italy, admitted he and Billy Gilmour have been relentlessly reminding the Danish striker of the spectacular overhead kick that helped seal Scotland's qualification at Denmark's expense.

  2. ‘Jealousy everywhere’ - Rice & Madueke bite back at Spence

    Declan Rice and Noni Madueke have delivered a stinging response to social media critics following a whirlwind weekend that saw Arsenal balance the euphoria of a Premier League title parade with the agony of Champions League heartbreak. The Gunners duo didn't hold back after Tottenham's Djed Spence attempted to mock their European final defeat on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain.

  3. The next Zlatan? Why Sesko wants to emulate the enigmatic Swedish striker

    Manchester United forward Benjamin Sesko has identified Old Trafford cult hero Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the primary inspiration behind his rise to the top of European football. The Slovenian international, who has become a fan favourite due to his commanding physical presence and a sharpened eye for goal since Michael Carrick took charge, admitted he spent his youth attempting to replicate the Swede's iconic style.

  4. CR7 in Hollywood!? ‘One thing’ Portuguese GOAT must do in order to become a ‘great actor’

    Cristiano Ronaldo has conquered the world of football, but the Portuguese icon might be eyeing a shocking second act in Hollywood once he finally hangs up his boots. While the Al-Nassr superstar remains focused on his record-breaking career and his final World Cup in 2026, those who have made the leap to acting believe he can succeed - provided he does just "one thing" right.

  5. Is Bellingham arrogant? Former team-mate reacts to criticism of Madrid superstar

    Jude Bellingham has faced accusations of arrogance as his profile continues to soar at Real Madrid, but those who saw his emergence first-hand are quick to defend the England superstar. Former Birmingham City team-mate David Davis has opened up on the midfielder’s early days, insisting that what some mistake for conceit is actually the essential self-belief required to reach the pinnacle of the game.