Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar weigh in ahead of Slovenian derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and Maribor forward Jan Mlakar have shared perspectives on their career trajectories and domestic football dynamics ahead of the upcoming derby between Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor.

Čeh, who spent over a decade as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec—including seven years working in Asia—reflected on his transition from playing to management. Despite holding strong personal ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian side Grazer AK, Čeh expressed continued respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, Mlakar discussed returning to Maribor for his third spell, expressing confidence in executive leadership under Zlatko Zahovič and Darko Milanič. Addressing the rivalry, Mlakar observed that while Ljubljana is undergoing a rough patch, derby matches remain unpredictable regardless of form.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net