Celje's echo: is there a Slovenian representative in the derby with Maribor?

The Slovenian football league is set to witness one of its most anticipated matches this weekend with a derby clash between NK Celje and NK Maribor. This encounter will mark a pivotal moment for both clubs, particularly for Celje, which has recently secured a notable European qualification and is looking to solidify its position in domestic competition. The match will take place at Stadion Z'dežele, where Celje hopes to leverage the support of their home crowd against the reigning champions, Maribor, who have shown consistent form under coach Zlatko Zahović and assistant Darko Milanić. Benjamin Verbič, a key player for Celje, is expected to make his return to the team ahead of the derby. The 32-year-old winger, who has spent over a decade abroad playing for clubs such as København, Dynamo Kyiv, Legia Warsaw, and Panathinaikos, is poised to reunite with his former club after leaving Levadiakos this summer. His potential inclusion could provide crucial experience and depth to Celje's squad, especially given the challenges they've faced domestically this season. While official confirmation of his move is pending, reports suggest that a press conference will be held soon to formally announce his return. Celje's recent success in European competitions has brought them into contention for a spot in the group stages, but their domestic campaign has been less impressive. After securing passage through the first round of European qualifiers, the team struggled in their opening league fixtures, drawing with Mura and postponing their second-round match against Aluminij due to European commitments. Meanwhile, Maribor has demonstrated signs of being a formidable challenger for the league title, with a strong squad and tactical discipline under their new coaching staff. In another major development, Mura None, the reigning Slovenian women’s champions, have bolstered their ranks with the addition of Mateja Zver, the captain of the Slovenian national team. Zver, who has amassed 127 caps and scored 56 goals for her country, brings extensive experience from her time abroad, including stints with Austrian side St. Pöltn and Turkish club Ankara Büyüksehir Belediyesi. Her return to Slovenia marks a significant boost for Mura, who aim to compete effectively in European competitions this season. Under the guidance of new head coach Ivan Dizdar, Mura will kick off their campaign on August 5 with a qualifying tournament for the UEFA Women’s Champions League. On the men’s front, French defender Léo Lacroix has joined Chelsea following his transfer from Wolfsburg in 2024. The 26-year-old, who has represented France in seven international matches and participated in the recent World Cup, expressed excitement about joining a historic club known for its winning tradition. Lacroix’s arrival adds to a busy summer for Chelsea, which has already signed Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers for £117 million and right-back Marc Palacios for £47 million. New manager Xabi Alonso aims to rejuvenate the squad, which finished tenth in the Premier League last season, and bring a renewed sense of purpose to the club. As the new season approaches, both men’s and women’s teams in Slovenia are preparing for intense competition. For Celje, the upcoming derby against Maribor represents a critical test of their capabilities, while Mura looks to build on their championship success with the addition of Zver. Meanwhile, in England, Lacroix’s move to Chelsea signals a shift in the club’s strategy under Alonso, aiming to restore past glories and challenge for domestic and continental honors.