Former Slovenian international figures reflect on careers and Eternal Derby dynamics

Former Slovenian national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have shared insights into their professional trajectories and the rivalries within Slovenian domestic football.

Čeh, who captained the national squad during its historic tournament qualifications under head coach Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching following his playing retirement. He spent over ten years as Katanec's assistant, including a seven-year stint in Asia, while maintaining professional respect for NK Maribor despite his affinity for Olimpija Ljubljana.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has returned to NK Maribor for a third spell. The Ljubljana-born player stated he was "never close to Olimpija" and expressed continued faith in Maribor's sporting setup. Commenting on the upcoming derby, Mlakar noted that while Olimpija "is in crisis, but in a derby it can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net