Slovenian football figures reflect on careers and Maribor-Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the enduring rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia's national team and spent over a decade as an assistant coach to Srečko Katanec—including seven years working in Asia—expressed strong ties to Olimpija and Austrian side Grazer AK, while emphasizing his respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell. Addressing his roots, Mlakar stated that he "was never close to Olimpija" and voiced confidence in Maribor's leadership. Mlakar observed that while Olimpija is currently experiencing a crisis, a derby match presents an opportunity for a struggling side to turn its fortunes around.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net