Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar reflect on domestic rivalries and career paths

Former Slovenian international captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have shared insights on their careers and the state of domestic club football.

Čeh, who previously served as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec for more than a decade—including a seven-year stint in Asia—reflected on his transition to management following a playing career closely linked with Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian side Grazer AK. Despite his strong ties to Ljubljana, Čeh expressed respect for rival club NK Maribor.

Separately, 27-year-old striker Mlakar addressed his third spell with NK Maribor, expressing confidence in the club's management. Mlakar dismissed speculation regarding potential transfers to Maribor's primary rivals, stating he was "never close to joining Olimpija," while observing that the struggling capital team could still regain momentum in the upcoming derby.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net