Slovenian football figures offer perspectives ahead of Maribor and Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team players Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have shared their thoughts regarding their careers and the rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, a former national team captain who served for more than ten years as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec and spent seven years coaching in Asia, highlighted his enduring affection for Olimpija while maintaining professional respect for Maribor. Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar discussed returning to Maribor for a third stint. Mlakar expressed confidence in club leaders Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič and dispelled past transfer rumors, stating that he was "never close to joining Olimpija." He noted that although Olimpija is currently experiencing a difficult patch, derby matches remain unpredictable and provide an opportunity for teams to regain momentum.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net