Slovenian football figures reflect on career paths and domestic derby dynamics

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have provided insights into their football careers and the current landscape of the domestic league.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its qualification for major tournaments under manager Srečko Katanec, detailed his transition into coaching. Following club spells at Olimpija, Grazer AK, and Maribor, he spent over a decade as Katanec’s assistant, including seven years coaching in Asia.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar reflected on his third return to Maribor. Despite his Ljubljana origins, Mlakar stated he was never close to signing with hometown rivals Olimpija. Looking ahead to the upcoming derby against a struggling Olimpija side, Mlakar cautioned that rivalry matches remain unpredictable, noting their opponents "can only gain" from the fixture.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net