Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar reflect on careers ahead of derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana ahead of the upcoming derby.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching after retiring and spent over a decade assisting Katanec, including seven years in Asia. He expressed enduring affection for Olimpija and Austria's Grazer AK, while emphasizing his respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar returned to Maribor for a third spell. Addressing speculation about his roots, Mlakar confirmed he was "never close to joining Olimpija." He noted that despite Olimpija's current form, "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net