Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on career paths and domestic rivalries

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have provided insights into their footballing careers and the state of the domestic game. Čeh, a central figure during Srečko Katanec’s tenure as head coach of the national team, transitioned to coaching following his playing retirement, serving as Katanec’s assistant for over a decade, including seven years spent working in Asia. Despite his close association with Olimpija Ljubljana and Grazer AK, Čeh emphasized his enduring respect for rival club Maribor.

Concurrently, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell at Ljudski vrt. Addressing past transfer speculation, Mlakar stated he was "never close to signing" with Olimpija. He noted that while Olimpija is currently experiencing a period of instability, the team remains competitive ahead of upcoming derby fixtures.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net