Former Slovenian footballers reflect on career moves and domestic league dynamics

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their football careers and the state of domestic football in separate media interviews.

Čeh, a former captain for the national team who later spent over a decade as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec—including seven years in Asia—discussed his transition into coaching. Reflecting on his past playing days with Olimpija Ljubljana and Grazer AK, Čeh expressed ongoing respect for Maribor despite historic rivalries.

In a separate interview, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar discussed returning to Maribor for a third spell, aiming to capture his first Slovenian PrvaLiga title with the club. Mlakar dismissed rumors of a potential transfer to rivals Olimpija Ljubljana, stating he was "never close" to joining the club. He noted that despite internal difficulties, Olimpija remains a formidably competitive opponent in upcoming derby matches.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net