Former Slovenian international figures share perspectives ahead of Maribor-Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have provided insights into their footballing journeys and the rivalries within Slovenian football.

Čeh, an iconic figure from the national team's qualification era under Srečko Katanec, reflected on his transition into coaching. After spending more than a decade as Katanec’s assistant—including seven years working in Asia—Čeh highlighted his enduring affection for Olimpija Ljubljana and Austria's GAK, alongside his respect for NK Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old striker Jan Mlakar discussed his third return to Maribor's Ljudski vrt. Despite being born in Ljubljana, Mlakar clarified that he was never close to signing with Olimpija. Addressing the upcoming derby, Mlakar noted that while Olimpija currently faces internal difficulties, struggling rivals remain unpredictable opponents in derby encounters.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net