Slovenian football figures reflect on club loyalty and domestic rivalries

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have offered perspectives on their careers and domestic club dynamics. Čeh, who captained the national team during its successful era under head coach Srečko Katanec and subsequently spent over a decade in coaching—including seven years in Asia—expressed enduring ties to Olimpija Ljubljana and Grazer AK alongside respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, Ljubljana native Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell. He refuted rumors linking him to Olimpija, clarifying that he was "never close to signing" with the capital club. Mlakar also addressed Olimpija's current internal difficulties, noting that despite their crisis, the Ljubljana side remains a formidable opponent capable of turning momentum in upcoming derby fixtures.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net