Ex-Premier League boss Pepe Mel suffers stroke, remains in ICU

Former West Bromwich Albion manager, Pepe Mel, has undergone emergency surgery after suffering a stroke in Seville, Spain.

The 63-year-old Spanish coach is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Hospital Virgen del Rocío following the incident on Sunday, November 1.

Sources at his former club, Real Betis, confirmed that the operation was successful, although he remains hospitalised and is awaiting further assessment.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, the information was released by sources at the La Liga club on Monday.

Mel, who is currently without a club, last worked as a manager with Moroccan side Ittihad Tanger, leaving the position in March 2026.

Several clubs he previously managed have expressed support for the coach and wished him a speedy recovery.

Real Betis, where Mel had two spells as manager, was among the clubs that sent messages of encouragement.

The club also played a significant role in communicating updates about his condition at the request of his family.

Former club UD Las Palmas said, “From UD Las Palmas, we want to send all our encouragement and affection to Pepe Mel, following the stroke he suffered, for which he underwent surgery.”

Rayo Vallecano also expressed its support, saying, “We want to convey all our support and affection to Pepe Mel, following the stroke he suffered, for which he had to undergo surgery. We wish him a speedy and complete recovery.”

Mel managed several clubs during his coaching career, including Real Betis, West Bromwich Albion, Deportivo La Coruña, UD Las Palmas, Málaga, Almería and Tenerife.

His two spells at Real Betis were particularly notable, as he guided the club to promotion to Spain’s top flight on two occasions.

He also managed West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League in 2014, recording three wins in 17 matches during his four-month spell.