Former Slovenian internationals reflect on domestic football and club rivalries

Former Slovenian national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have provided reflections on their footballing careers and the current landscape of domestic competition ahead of the eternal derby between Olimpija Ljubljana and NK Maribor.

Čeh, the former national team captain who served for over a decade as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec—including a seven-year tenure in Asia—discussed his transition into management following a playing career tied to Olimpija and Austria's Grazer AK. Despite his affinity for Ljubljana, Čeh expressed enduring respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Mlakar discussed his third return to NK Maribor, affirming his trust in the club's leadership. Addressing transfer rumors, Mlakar stated he was "never close to joining Olimpija" and noted that while the capital club is currently struggling, "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net