Former captain Čeh and forward Mlakar reflect on Slovenian football paths

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have shared insights on their footballing journeys and the landscape of Slovenian domestic football. Čeh, a key figure from manager Srečko Katanec’s era, transitioned into coaching following his playing career. After spending over a decade as Katanec's assistant—including seven years in Asia—Čeh expressed continued affection for former clubs Olimpija Ljubljana and Grazer AK, alongside respect for rivals NK Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has returned to NK Maribor for a third spell in pursuit of a league championship. Commenting on rivals Olimpija Ljubljana during a period of internal instability, Mlakar noted that form is unpredictable in rivalry fixtures, stating that "in a derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net