The 2001-02 campaign was a season of immediate, agonizing ambition for Napoli as the Partenopei sought a rapid return to the top flight, having been newly relegated from Serie A. They ultimately finished a competitive 5th in Serie B, narrowly missing the promotion spot by a handful of points after a late-season stumble. Leading the charge was the prolific forward Roberto Stellone, whose 13 goals across all competitions anchored the attack in a campaign built on the fervent hope of a swift resurgence. It was a frustrating year that ended with manager Luigi De Canio stepping down, but it remains a crucial chapter in the club's difficult journey to reclaim its place in Italian football's top tier.