I’m Cristian Manoliu, the editor and developer behind Kickoff Report. I build the data pipeline, prediction model, and editorial system that powers this site.
My background is in software engineering. I’ve been following European football closely for over two decades, with a particular interest in the statistical side of the game — how predictions compare to outcomes, where models succeed, and where human judgment still matters.
Every article on Kickoff Report is generated with the help of AI, using structured match data (fixtures, form, Elo ratings, head-to-head records) as the factual foundation. I review the output before anything goes live and run an automated fact-checking gate that blocks fabricated claims.
Methodology
Match probabilities use a Dixon-Coles-influenced Poisson model anchored to Elo ratings. The model is backtested on five seasons of European league data. You can read more on the About page.