Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar reflect on careers and rivalries

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have shared insights into their football careers and their perspectives on domestic rivalries. Čeh, a central figure during Slovenia's historic international era, subsequently transitioned to coaching alongside manager Srečko Katanec, spending over a decade as an assistant, including seven years working in Asia. Despite deep ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Grazer AK, Čeh maintains strong respect for rivals Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for his third stint, seeking his first league title with the club. Addressing past transfer rumors, Mlakar denied ever being close to signing with Olimpija. He noted that while Olimpija currently faces difficulties, upcoming derby fixtures against them remain inherently unpredictable.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net