During summer of 1987, Construction Businessman Jesus Gil was elected club president and his first signing was that of 21-year-old Portuguese winger Paulo Futre.[1].

Forward Julio Salinas moved from Athletic Bilbao, and he found the net at an impressive rate (this included a brace on 7 February 1988 in a 7–0 home thrashing of RCD Mallorca).

After 23 games of the season, Atlético were second to Real Madrid, but went on a six-game winless run culminating in a 3–1 home loss to their city rivals on 20 March 1988.

Chairman Jesús Gil had already had talks with Menotti – including about the players' nightlife before their draw away to Real Sociedad in October – and subsequently dismissed him.

[4] [5] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.