Slovenian football figures reflect on Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana rivalry

Former Slovenian international captain Aleš Čeh and striker Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the enduring rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana ahead of their upcoming derby.

Čeh, who captained Slovenia during its early international achievements and spent over a decade coaching alongside Srečko Katanec, highlighted his attachment to Olimpija while maintaining respect for Maribor following a seven-year coaching stint in Asia. Meanwhile, Ljubljana-born forward Jan Mlakar has returned to Maribor for a third spell. Addressing long-standing transfer rumors, the 27-year-old stated that he was "never close to joining Olimpija" despite his roots in the capital. Mlakar added that while Olimpija currently faces a difficult stretch, the club "can only gain" in the high-stakes context of the derby.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net