Slovenian football veterans reflect on careers and Maribor rivalry
Former national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar share perspectives on coaching, career choices, and the domestic rivalry between Maribor and Olimpija.
Former Slovenian national team players Aleš Čeh and Jan Mlakar have provided reflections on their careers and the ongoing rivalry between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.
Čeh, the former captain of Slovenia's national team during its historic tournament qualifications, discussed his transition into coaching after retiring as a player. He served as an assistant to head coach Srečko Katanec for over a decade, which included seven years working in Asia. Despite his ties to Olimpija, Čeh maintained respect for rival club Maribor.
Meanwhile, 27-year-old forward Jan Mlakar addressed his third return to Maribor. Despite being born in Ljubljana, Mlakar stated he was "never close to Olimpija" and expressed confidence in Maribor's leadership, specifically highlighting former sports director Zlatko Zahović and former manager Darko Milanič. Commenting on Olimpija's current form, Mlakar noted the club "is in crisis, but in a derby it can only gain."
Sources: Delo, Siol.net
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