Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and Olimpija-Maribor rivalry

Former Slovenian national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have shared perspectives on their career developments and the ongoing football rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and NK Maribor.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its acclaimed international era and subsequently spent over a decade as assistant coach under Srečko Katanec, reflected on his coaching period in Asia and his enduring affiliation with both Olimpija and Austria's GAK, alongside his respect for Maribor. Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Mlakar returned to Maribor for a third tenure. Despite his Ljubljana roots, Mlakar stated he was "never close to joining Olimpija," noting that while Olimpija faces internal struggles, "in the derby they can only gain."

Both interviews highlight the enduring competitive intensity surrounding the Slovenian football derby.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net