Former OFI head coach Pepe Mel has been hospitalized in a Seville hospital after suffering a stroke. The 63-year-old is currently under medical observation in the facility's intensive care unit, according to reports published on November 2, 2026.
In response to the news, OFI released a supportive message for their former manager. The club shared an Instagram story addressed directly to Mel, stating that their thoughts are with him and wishing him a speedy recovery.
Mel, described as an Iberian coach, had a brief tenure leading the Cretan side. He worked at OFI starting in December 2023 and remained in the role until February 2024. His time at the club ended when he was replaced by Traianos Dellas.
Michalis Bousis stated OFI Crete FC aims to advance as far as possible in Europe following the club's first away victory in a European League Phase match.
Achilleas Poungouras scored his first goal for OFI Crete FC to secure the club's first away win in a European League Phase and described the performance as their best so far.
PAOK manager Alessio Lisi will be without Dimitris Pelkas and Tom Louce for the away match against OFI, while Kiril Despodov shows positive signs of recovery.
OFI Crete
