The 2000-01 campaign was a season of European brilliance and domestic consolidation for Valencia, with Los Che ultimately finishing 5th in La Liga. Despite focusing resources on the continent, veteran striker Juan Sánchez led the domestic attack with 12 goals. Under manager Héctor Cúper, the team mounted an unforgettable run to its second consecutive UEFA Champions League final, defeating Arsenal and Leeds United along the way. The dramatic dream ended in heartbreak at the San Siro against Bayern Munich, with Los Che losing 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. It was an agonizing near-miss that saw the departure of captain Gaizka Mendieta and manager Cúper, but the year remains a defining, golden chapter in the club's modern European history.