Slovenian football figures reflect on career paths ahead of eternal derby

Former national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have shared insights into their career trajectories ahead of the upcoming derby between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia's "golden generation" under manager Srečko Katanec, reflected on his post-playing career, which featured over a decade of coaching and seven years working in Asia. Despite his long-standing affinity for Olimpija, Čeh emphasized his respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third stint, expressing complete confidence in club directors Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič. Clarifying past transfer speculation, Mlakar stated he was "never close to joining Olimpija" and noted that despite Olimpija's current difficult spell, derby matches present unexpected opportunities.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net