The 2000-01 campaign delivered a triumphant return to the top flight for Villarreal as El Submarino Amarillo surged to a highly respectable 7th-place finish in La Liga, their first season back in the elite after a brief relegation. Leading the charge was the prolific forward Víctor, whose 14 league goals were vital, anchoring a campaign built on renewed stability under manager Víctor Muñoz. It was a pivotal year of consolidation and renewed hope for the club, famously featuring a thrilling 4-4 draw against giants Barcelona that showcased their attacking intent.