Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and eternal derby

Former Slovenian national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have reflected on their football careers and the rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana ahead of the eternal derby.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia's national team during its renowned era under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching following his playing career. He spent over a decade assisting Katanec, including a seven-year stint in Asia, while expressing ongoing affection for Olimpija and Grazer AK.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for his third stint at Ljudski vrt. Addressing speculation regarding his roots in the capital, the Ljubljana native confirmed he was "never close to joining Olimpija." Looking ahead to the upcoming derby match, Mlakar remarked that despite Olimpija's recent struggles, "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net