Slovenian football figures reflect on careers ahead of domestic derby

Prominent Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have reflected on their respective careers and the domestic rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, former captain of Slovenia's national team during its qualification for major international tournaments under manager Srečko Katanec, later worked for over a decade as Katanec’s assistant coach, including seven years in Asia. Čeh expressed affection for Olimpija and Austrian club GAK while maintaining respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old striker Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for a third tenure. Despite being born in Ljubljana, Mlakar dismissed rumors linking him to his hometown club, stating he was "never close to joining Olimpija." Speaking on the eternal derby, Mlakar noted Olimpija's recent difficulties, adding that "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net