Slovenian football figures reflect on careers and national derby dynamics

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have provided insights into their career trajectories and perspectives on the domestic football landscape.

Čeh, who served as assistant manager under Srečko Katanec for more than a decade and spent seven years coaching in Asia, highlighted his enduring connection to Olimpija Ljubljana alongside his respect for NK Maribor. Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Mlakar recently returned to Maribor for a third tenure. Mlakar clarified that he was "never close to joining Olimpija" despite his Ljubljana roots, adding that while Olimpija currently faces difficulties, "in the derby they can only gain."

Both figures emphasized the ongoing competitive balance and intensity defining the Slovenian football rivalry.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net