Slovenian football figures reflect on careers and Maribor-Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have offered perspectives on their football careers and the ongoing rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and NK Maribor. Čeh, who led Slovenia during its celebrated international era under manager Srečko Katanec, transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player, spending over a decade as Katanec’s assistant coach across various roles in Asia while maintaining affection for both Olimpija and Austrian club GAK.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for his third stint at the club. Reaffirming his commitment to Maribor, Mlakar clarified that he was "never close to joining Olimpija" despite his hometown roots. Commenting on the upcoming derby, Mlakar acknowledged Olimpija’s current organizational struggles, noting that "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net