Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar reflect on careers and domestic ties

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have provided reflections on their careers and ongoing ties to domestic football.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its qualification era under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching following his playing retirement. He served as Katanec's assistant for over a decade, including seven years working in Asia. Despite his long-standing ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Austria's Grazer AK, Čeh emphasized his ongoing respect for rival club Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for a third spell, targeting his first league title with the team. Mlakar dismissed past transfer rumors regarding a potential move to Ljubljana, stating, "I was never close to joining Olimpija." He added that derby matches remain intense regardless of organizational changes.

Sources: Siol.net, Delo