Slovenian football figures reflect on careers and upcoming Maribor-Olimpija derby

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have provided perspectives on their football journeys and the upcoming Eternal Derby between Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor. Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its acclaimed qualification era under manager Srečko Katanec, detailed his subsequent coaching career, which included over a decade as Katanec's assistant across Europe and Asia. Meanwhile, 27-year-old Ljubljana-born forward Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for his third stint at the club. Speaking ahead of the rivalry match, Mlakar reaffirmed his commitment to Maribor despite his hometown origins, noting that while Olimpija currently faces an internal crisis, derby matches often offer struggling teams a chance to reverse their fortunes.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net