Slovenian football veterans Čeh and Mlakar reflect on careers and derby rivalry

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have provided reflections on their football careers and the ongoing rivalry between Olimpija Ljubljana and Maribor.

Čeh, who spent over a decade assisting manager Srečko Katanec across Europe and Asia, reiterated his affection for both Olimpija and Austria's Grazer AK while maintaining professional respect for Maribor.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar has rejoined Maribor for a third spell. Despite being born in Ljubljana, Mlakar stated that he "was never close to Olimpija" and expressed full confidence in Maribor's leadership. Commenting on the rivalry, Mlakar noted that while Olimpija faces a crisis, derby matches offer struggling clubs a chance to reset.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net