The 1998–1999 campaign was the 93rd season in Atlético Madrid's history and their 64th season in La Liga, the top division of Spanish football. Season summary Arrigo Sacchi was sacked in February with Atlético in the UEFA Cup quarter-finals but also mired in the bottom half of the table. B-team manager Carlos Sánchez Aguiar took charge for the next month, guiding Atlético to the UEFA Cup semi-finals, before handing the reins to Radomir Antić. Antić had guided the club to the title three years previously, but ultimately the high point of his second spell in charge would be reaching the Copa del Rey final, only to be thrashed 3-0 by Valencia. The league form under Antić continued to be mediocre and Atlético were also knocked out of the UEFA Cup in the semi-finals for the second season running, by eventual champions Parma. Although Atlético qualified for the UEFA Cup due to their domestic cup run, this season would prove to be the beginning of the end for Atlético's status as one of Spain's top clubs for most of the next decade; it would be five more years until Atlético recorded their next top-half finish, and another three before their return to European competition. First-team squad Squad at end of season Left club during season Competitions La Liga League table Matches Copa del Rey Eightfinals Quarterfinals Semifinals Final UEFA Cup First round Atlético Madrid won 3–0 on aggregate. Second round Atlético Madrid won 5–2 on aggregate. Third round Atlético Madrid won 5–3 on aggregate. Quarter-finals Atlético Madrid won 4–2 on aggregate. Semi-finals Parma won 5–2 on aggregate. References 1998-99 Spanish football clubs 1998–99 season