Slovenian football figures reflect on club ties ahead of derby

Former national team captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their footballing journeys and shared perspectives on Slovenian club football. Čeh, a long-time assistant to Srečko Katanec, discussed his transition into coaching following a decade-long partnership that included seven years managing in Asia. Despite maintaining deep connections to Olimpija Ljubljana and Austrian club Grazer AK, Čeh emphasized his ongoing respect for rival side NK Maribor.

Meanwhile, forward Jan Mlakar returned to Maribor for a third stint, expressing confidence in the club's sporting leadership. Addressing transfer speculation, Mlakar stated he was "never close to joining Olimpija" while noting that the struggling Ljubljana club could gain momentum in the upcoming derby.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net