Atlético de Madrid acquired Mexican striker Hugo Sánchez from Club Universidad Nacional before the season began. After a difficult initial period, Sánchez became the club's leading scorer. At the end of the season, Atlético was obligated to make a second installment of the transfer payment to Pumas as they wanted to retain Sánchez for the following season.[1] In League, the club collapsed during November due to the absence of Sanchez, who was playing for the Mexican national football team the 1981 CONCACAF Championship in Honduras ultimately missing the two available spots for the upcoming 1982 FIFA World Cup.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.