Former West Brom manager Pepe Mel was rushed to hospital in his native Spain over the weekend after suffering a stroke.

The Baggies issued a statement on social media expressing their condolences to the 63-year-old, who was in charge at the Hawthorns from January to May 2014.

The experienced manager is now out of employment, but has previously worked in Spain, Greece, England, and Morocco.

His most recent managerial spell was with IR Tangier, where he managed seven games before leaving in March 2026.

Mel started coaching at Coslada in 1999 and has since worked for Getafe, Alaves, Real Betis, and Deportivo de La Coruña.

His only foray into English football was at West Brom, where he took over after Steve Clarke’s sacking midway through the 2013/14 season, eventually finishing 17th in the Premier League.

West Brom sent a message to Pepe Mel.

West Brom have tweeted a statement on their X account wishing Mel a speedy recovery following reports that he was rushed to hospital with a stroke over the weekend.

The 63-year-old underwent successful emergency surgery, and the club has promised to support him throughout his recovery.

“Everyone at West Bromwich Albion wishes former boss Pepe Mel a speedy recovery following surgery, after suffering a stroke,” the club stated.

Mel is believed to be in intensive care following emergency surgery, where he will begin his recuperation.

The Spaniard took over at West Brom in January 2014, after Clarke supervised a difficult first half of the season.

However, he led the Baggies to only three wins in 17 games, prompting his departure at the end of the season after keeping the club in the Premier League for another year.

He was followed by Alan Irvine, and Mel returned to his former club Betis in December 2014.

West Brom’s start in the Championship season

After 13 games, James Morrison’s West Brom sit fourth in the Championship table.

Albion have won seven, drawn three, and lost three, putting them four points behind leaders Middlesbrough.

The Midlands club is also four points clear of ninth-place QPR, and they are equal with rivals Wolves but lower in the standings due to a lower goal difference.

Morrison’s side will next play at home against Southampton on November 3 at 8 p.m.

I wish Pepe Mel the best.

It was a kind gesture by West Brom to wish Mel well in his rehabilitation from a stroke, especially given that he only spent a few months with the club.

The football world has joined them in hoping that he will return to full health soon.

Mel is particularly well-liked at Betis, where he not only spent two seasons as a manager but also played forward before transitioning to teaching.

Everyone will be hoping for a positive update on Mel’s progress shortly, and that he may even return to management in the future if he so chooses.