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

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have offered perspectives on their careers and the state of domestic football. Čeh, who captained the national squad during its successful era under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching following his playing days, spending over a decade as Katanec’s assistant across various roles, including seven years in Asia. Despite his strong historical ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian side Grazer AK, Čeh maintained his respect for rival club NK Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has rejoined NK Maribor for a third spell, seeking his first league title with the club. Mlakar voiced confidence in Maribor leadership figures Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič. Commenting on the upcoming derby against Olimpija, Mlakar observed that while Olimpija faces institutional crisis, the rival side remains dangerous in head-to-head matches.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net