Slovenian football figures reflect on career paths ahead of eternal derby

Former national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their career trajectories ahead of the upcoming Slovenian derby between Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor.

Čeh, a prominent member of Slovenia's international qualification era under manager Srečko Katanec, discussed his transition to coaching. Following his playing spell with Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian club Grazer AK, Čeh spent over a decade as an assistant coach to Katanec, including seven years working in Asia.

Meanwhile, Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar discussed his third stint with Maribor. Despite his origins in the capital, Mlakar noted he never felt close to Olimpija and expressed confidence in Maribor's management. Commenting on the upcoming fixture, Mlakar stated that while Olimpija is experiencing a period of crisis, a derby offers struggling clubs a valuable opportunity to regain momentum.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net