Slovenian football figures reflect on career paths and Maribor-Olimpija rivalry

Former Slovenian international football captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their career paths and the rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and NK Maribor. Čeh, who served as long-time assistant to manager Srečko Katanec during a decade-long coaching career that included seven years in Asia, expressed lasting affection for Olimpija alongside Austrian club GAK, while maintaining respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for a third tenure. Mlakar clarified that despite his hometown origins, he was "never close to joining Olimpija." Commenting on Olimpija's recent organizational difficulties, Mlakar noted that "in the derby they can only gain." Both figures highlighted the intensity of the domestic rivalry ahead of upcoming domestic encounters.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net