Pepe Mel in Betis return?

Pepe Mel is being linked with a return to Real Betis, the club that sacked him last December after a string of poor results.

Betis have announced the resignations of President Manuel Dominguez Platas, Vice-President Fernando Casas and director Antonio Sanchez Pino, the only members of the board involved in Mel’s dismissal, according to AS.

A club statement confirmed the decisions had been taken in light of the sporting situation at the Benito Villamarin, with Los Beticos currently sixth in La Segunda, eight points behind leaders Las Palmas.

“The board of directors of Real Betis Balompie have decided it is necessary to bring forward the definitive renewal of those in control at the club. On that basis the club have a called a board meeting for today, Tuesday November25, at which the resignations will be presented and accepted,” it read.

The resignations open up the possibility of a return for Mel, who steered Betis to the top flight in his first year in charge in 2010 and subsequently led the club to seventh place in 2013 and Europa League qualification.

The Betis faithful have recently turned against current boss Julio Velazquez and loudly demanded Mel’s return, particularly since he is without a club having left West Bromwich Albion at the end of last season.

He was also recently linked with the Real Sociedad job before former Manchester United boss David Moyes accepted the post.

However, outgoing President Platas believes it is far from certain Mel would accept any offer from Betis.

“Firstly, it remains to be seen whether the new board want Mel and then we’ll see if he wants to come and Betis have the money to pay him.

“He is a Primera Coach and Betis are in La Segunda,” he claimed.

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La Liga - Club News