The 1995-96 campaign was a turbulent season of transition for Inter Milan, with the Nerazzurri finishing an unspectacular 7th in Serie A under three different managers, culminating in the arrival of Roy Hodgson. Despite the struggles, the season was pivotal for the club's future, marked by the arrival of key signings Paul Ince, Roberto Carlos, and the legendary Javier Zanetti, who would become a club icon for years to come. Leading the line was winter arrival Marco Branca, whose 17 league goals proved decisive in a campaign that only secured a UEFA Cup place because Champions League winners Juventus opened up an extra qualification spot.. The 1996-97 campaign delivered a vital return to contention for Inter Milan as the Nerazzurri secured a crucial 3rd-place finish in Serie A under manager Roy Hodgson, their best result since the early 1990s. Leading the charge was the elegant French playmaker Youri Djorkaeff, whose 14 league goals, alongside the overall team-high of 20 goals from Maurizio Ganz, provided the attacking flair. The team, featuring stars like Paul Ince and a young Javier Zanetti, also mounted a brilliant run to the UEFA Cup Final but suffered a painful loss on penalties to Schalke 04. This highly competitive year proved a crucial starting point for the club's modern history, culminating in the significant, record-breaking purchase of the Brazilian phenomenon Ronaldo.