Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on coaching and domestic derby ties

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their football careers and their enduring ties to domestic rivalries. Čeh, who served as captain during the national team's acclaimed era under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player. He spent over a decade as Katanec’s assistant coach, including seven years working in Asia, while maintaining high respect for clubs such as Olimpija, Grazer AK, and Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell in search of his first league title with the club. Mlakar dismissed past rumors linking him to rival club Olimpija, emphasizing that despite Olimpija's recent struggles, upcoming derby matches remain unpredictable and high-stakes encounters.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net