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

Ahead of the upcoming Slovenian derby between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana, former national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have shared insights into their careers and expectations.

Former Slovenia captain Aleš Čeh reflected on his post-playing career, which featured more than a decade of coaching alongside Srečko Katanec and seven years working in Asia. Despite his deep ties to Olimpija, Čeh emphasized his enduring respect for rivals Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar discussed returning to Maribor for a third spell. Expressing trust in club leaders Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič, Mlakar dismissed past transfer rumors, clarifying he was "never close to joining Olimpija." He added that while Olimpija currently faces a crisis, derby matches remain unpredictable, giving struggling teams an opportunity to regain momentum.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net