Former Real Betis manager Pepe Mel is recovering in a Seville hospital after undergoing successful surgery following a stroke he suffered on Sunday, according to the Real Betis.
Surgery Aftermath in Seville
The intervention followed a stroke that required immediate medical attention in the Andalusian capital. Real Betis released a statement at the request of the coach’s family, confirming the surgical success and noting that Mel is currently resting under observation within the intensive care unit of the Seville medical center.
Two Eras of Promotion and European Ambition
Mel’s association with Real Betis spans multiple distinct periods on the touchline. He took charge in 2010 with the club playing in the Segunda División, guiding the squad to promotion to the top flight at the conclusion of the 2010–11 campaign.
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Under his direction, the club reached European competition during the 2013–14 season after a lengthy absence from continental tournaments. However, that tenure ended prematurely when the club dismissed him on December 2, 2013, before he could finish the team’s Europa League run.
Just over a year later, on December 23, 2014, Mel returned to the Benito Villamarín for a second stint. Inheriting a Segunda División squad once more, he engineered another promotion campaign for 2014–15. Taking over ahead of the 19th matchday against Alcorcón, his team suffered only three defeats across the final 24 fixtures alongside six draws, securing promotion with a 3–0 victory over Alcorcón with two games to spare.
Playing Career Roots in Heliópolis
Before his coaching days, Mel left a significant mark on the club as a professional forward. Following his development in the Real Madrid youth system, he represented Real Betis from 1980 to 1993, scoring 58 goals across 132 appearances. During the 1989–90 season, he captured the Segunda División Pichichi trophy as the league’s top scorer with 23 goals.
Hospital Monitoring and Next Updates
Medical staff continue to monitor Mel’s recovery within the intensive care unit. Real Betis and hospital representatives are expected to release further updates regarding his condition as he progresses through post-operative care in Seville.
