Former Slovenian football captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar reflect on club rivalries

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the upcoming Eternal Derby between rivals Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor.

Čeh, who led Slovenia during its qualification era under manager Srečko Katanec and later served as his assistant coach for over a decade across Europe and Asia, shared insights into his post-playing transition. Despite his deep ties to Olimpija, he expressed strong respect for Maribor and Austrian club GAK.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar discussed his third stint with Maribor. Reaffirming his commitment to the club despite his hometown origins, Mlakar noted that while Olimpija faces internal difficulties, high-stakes derby matches often allow struggling teams to turn their fortunes around.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net