Former Real Betis manager Pepe Mel has regained consciousness and is breathing without sedation following emergency surgery for a stroke suffered on Sunday.
The 63-year-old coach remains in intensive care, where his condition is showing signs of positive recovery, according to a statement released by his family on Wednesday, November 11.
Addressing the Underlying Cause
While his awakening marks a significant milestone in his recovery, medical staff have determined that Mel will require a second operation. According to reporting from El Correo de Andalucía, this forthcoming intervention is intended to correct a congenital malformation that physicians identified as the underlying cause of the stroke.
The initial emergency procedure was deemed a success by the medical team at the Seville hospital where Mel remains under observation. Doctors are continuing to monitor his progress closely as he prepares for the next phase of his treatment.
A Resilient Recovery
The family shared their relief and gratitude in a statement distributed through Real Betis Balompié.
“Once the sedation was withdrawn, Pepe woke up and has shown signs of good evolution,” the family said.
They concluded their message with a note of optimism, saying, “He will keep fighting. Thank God!”
Broad Support in Spain
Beyond the Real Betis faithful, Sevilla FC publicly expressed their well-wishes for the former manager. Sevilla president José María del Nido Carrasco reiterated this support during the club’s recent Blázquez event, acknowledging the gravity of the situation for the Madrid-born coach.
Deep Ties to Betis
Pepe Mel maintains a deep connection with Real Betis, having served as the club’s manager during two separate spells between 2010 and 2013 and again from 2014 to 2016. His ties to the club extend further back to his time as a player for the verdiblancos.
While the family has confirmed the necessity of a second surgery to address the congenital issue, no specific date has been announced for the procedure. The medical team continues to manage his recovery in the hospital’s intensive care unit as of Wednesday.
Earlier coverage: Pepe Mel Wakes From Sedation After Stroke and Awaits Second Surgery
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