Slovenian football stars Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and rivalries

Slovenian football figures Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have reflected on their careers and the domestic rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana. Former national team captain Čeh, who played a central role during Slovenia's qualification for major international tournaments under manager Srečko Katanec, later served for over a decade as Katanec’s assistant coach in Asia. Despite his coaching journey, Čeh expressed enduring affection for both Olimpija and Austrian side GAK, while maintaining respect for Maribor.

Concurrently, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has embarked on his third spell with Maribor. The Ljubljana-born player dismissed speculation regarding a move to his hometown club, stating he was "never close to joining Olimpija." Addressing the upcoming eternal derby, Mlakar acknowledged Olimpija's recent struggles, remarking that "in the derby they can only gain."

Sources: Delo, Siol.net