Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and rivalries

Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have shared insights into their playing careers and post-retirement developments. Čeh, who captained Slovenia's national team during its successful era under manager Srečko Katanec, detailed his transition into coaching. Following club stints with Olimpija, Grazer AK, and Maribor, he spent over a decade as an assistant coach alongside Katanec, including seven years in Asia.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar discussed his third return to Maribor. Despite originating from Ljubljana, Mlakar stated he was never close to signing with hometown rivals Olimpija. Looking ahead to the upcoming derby, Mlakar remarked that while Olimpija faces recent difficulties, derby matches remain unpredictable, leaving their rivals with only something to gain.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net