Slovenian football figures reflect on careers ahead of Maribor-Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team figures have reflected on their career trajectories and the upcoming derby between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana. Aleš Čeh, the former captain of Slovenia's "golden generation" under coach Srečko Katanec, shared insights into his post-playing career, which included over a decade in coaching and seven years spent working in Asia. Despite his strong historical affinity for Olimpija, Čeh expressed continued respect for rivals Maribor.

Meanwhile, Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third stint, stating he trusts club leadership under Zlatko Zahović and Darko Milanič. Addressing past transfer rumors, Mlakar clarified that he was "never close to joining Olimpija" despite his hometown roots. He noted that while Olimpija currently faces a difficult spell, the club "can only gain" in the high-stakes derby context.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net