The 1995-96 campaign was a golden age for Espanyol as Los Pericos, under the fiery guidance of manager José Antonio Camacho, surged to a spectacular 4th-place finish in La Liga. This crucial position, achieved in the first season where a win was worth three points, secured a highly coveted spot in the UEFA Cup. Spearheading the charge was the sensational young winger Jordi Lardín, whose 17 league goals (21 overall) were decisive in a campaign built on attacking flair and grit, notably including a stunning double victory over rivals Real Madrid. It was a standout year that re-established Espanyol as a formidable force and remains a defining chapter in the club's modern history.