Slovenian football figures Čeh and Mlakar share career insights ahead of derby

Former Slovenian national team figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have provided updates on their career paths and perspectives on domestic club football. Čeh, who previously served as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec for over a decade including seven years in Asia, expressed continuing affection for Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian side Grazer AK, alongside respect for NK Maribor.

Concurrently, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has rejoined NK Maribor for a third tenure. Addressing rumors regarding potential domestic transfers, Mlakar confirmed he was "never close to joining Olimpija" and expressed full confidence in Maribor's sporting direction. Ahead of the upcoming derby, Mlakar acknowledged Olimpija's current difficulties while noting that high-stakes derby matches remain unpredictable and offer both clubs an opportunity to shift momentum.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net