Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and domestic rivalries

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have detailed their career pathways and perspectives on domestic football. Čeh, who served as captain during manager Srečko Katanec's prominent tenure, transitioned to coaching after retiring. He spent over a decade assisting Katanec, including seven years working in Asia. Despite his historical ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Austria's Grazer AK, Čeh expressed ongoing respect for rival club NK Maribor.

Concurrently, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has rejoined NK Maribor for a third stint as he seeks his first league title with the club. Mlakar voiced confidence in Maribor's management, specifically Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič. Addressing the upcoming domestic derby, Mlakar noted that while Olimpija Ljubljana faces administrative and performance challenges, the capital side remains a formidable opponent.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net