Former West Brom Manager Pepe Mel, 63, Undergoes Emergency Surgery After Suffering Stroke in Spain

Former West Bromwich Albion manager Pepe Mel is recovering in intensive care after undergoing surgery for a stroke he suffered on Sunday.

The 63-year-old Spanish coach was admitted to Virgen del Rocio Hospital in Seville, where he underwent an operation that was reported to have been successful.

Real Betis, one of Mel’s former clubs, confirmed his medical condition in a statement released at the request of his family.

Real Betis Confirms Mel’s Hospitalisation

Betis announced that Mel had suffered a stroke on Sunday and subsequently required surgery.

The club confirmed that he was recovering in intensive care following the successful operation.

The Spaniard managed Real Betis during two separate spells, establishing a strong connection with the club.

His former teams have since joined the messages of support wishing him a full recovery.

Mel’s Short Spell in the Premier League

Although much of Mel’s managerial career has been spent in Spain, he had a brief spell in English football when he took charge of West Bromwich Albion in January 2014.

He arrived at The Hawthorns after the club dismissed Steve Clarke the previous month.

West Brom were four points above the Premier League relegation zone when Mel was appointed.

During his 17 matches in charge, the Baggies recorded three victories, six draws and eight defeats.

West Brom eventually secured their Premier League status, finishing 17th in the table, three points clear of relegated Norwich City.

However, Mel was dismissed just 24 hours after the final match of the season.

Difficulties During His Time at West Brom

Mel’s time at West Brom also involved managing several challenging situations involving members of the squad.

One of the major incidents concerned striker Nicolas Anelka, who announced his intention to leave the club after receiving a fine and suspension over his controversial ‘quenelle’ goal celebration.

The manager also had to address tensions within the dressing room following an altercation between Saido Berahino and James Morrison.

Return to Real Betis and Other Managerial Roles

Mel returned to Real Betis for a second spell later in 2014, subsequently guiding the club back into LaLiga.

It was the second time he had secured promotion to Spain’s top division with Betis, having previously achieved the feat in 2011.

He also managed Rayo Vallecano, leading the club to promotion into Spain’s second division.

Across his managerial career, Mel has been in charge of 16 different clubs.

His most recent appointment was with Moroccan side IR Tanger, which he left earlier in 2026.

Former Clubs and LaLiga Send Messages of Support

Following news of his surgery, former clubs and football organisations expressed their support for the recovering manager.

Rayo Vallecano published a statement wishing Mel a quick and complete recovery.

“From Rayo Vallecano, we want to convey all our support and affection to Pepe Mel, after suffering a stroke for which he has had to undergo surgery. We wish him a swift and complete recovery,” the club said.

LaLiga also sent a message of encouragement, writing: “From LALIGA we send all our affection and a speedy recovery to Pepe Mel. We’re with you, Pepe.”