The 1996-97 campaign delivered a tense, dramatic survival for Real Zaragoza, as Los Maños finished a crucial 14th in La Liga. The season was defined by a turbulent start that saw three managerial changes before the return of Luis Costa stabilized the team, ultimately avoiding relegation in the final rounds. Leading the vital fight for survival was the emerging forward Fernando Morientes, whose 15 league goals proved decisive alongside key performances from Gus Poyet and Kily González. It was a hard-fought, chaotic year that secured their top-flight status and remains a pivotal chapter in the club's history.