Jan Mlakar returns to Maribor as former captain Aleš Čeh reflects on coaching

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their football careers and the ongoing rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during manager Srečko Katanec's era, discussed transitioning into coaching after retiring as a player. He spent over a decade as Katanec's assistant manager, including seven years working in Asia. Despite his long-standing ties to Olimpija and Austrian side GAK, Čeh emphasized his continued respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for a third tenure. Commenting on the upcoming derby against Olimpija, Mlakar noted that although Olimpija is currently experiencing internal difficulties, struggling opponents remain unpredictable and dangerous in derby fixtures.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net