Slovenian football figures reflect on careers and Maribor-Olimpija rivalry

Former Slovenian national football team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the historic rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and NK Maribor. Čeh, who captained Slovenia during manager Srečko Katanec's "golden generation," spent over a decade as Katanec's assistant coach, including seven years working in Asia. He expressed affection for Olimpija and Austrian side GAK while reiterating his respect for Maribor.

Concurrently, 27-year-old Ljubljana native Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell. Addressing his career decisions, Mlakar clarified that despite his hometown roots, he was "never close to joining Olimpija." He added that although Olimpija is currently experiencing organizational difficulties, "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net