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

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have provided reflections on their football careers and the ongoing rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its historic period under head coach Srečko Katanec, expressed his enduring affinity for Olimpija and Austrian club GAK, while maintaining respect for Maribor. After retiring as a player, Čeh served as Katanec's assistant coach for over a decade, including seven years working in Asia.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Mlakar has embarked on his third tenure with Maribor. Despite his Ljubljana roots, Mlakar affirmed his trust in Maribor's leadership, specifically Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič, and dismissed rumors linking him to Olimpija. He noted that while Olimpija is currently experiencing a difficult period, derby matches remain highly unpredictable.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net