The 2002-03 campaign saw Werder Bremen, led by manager Thomas Schaaf, secure a solid 6th-place finish in the Bundesliga, which was enough to qualify for the Intertoto Cup. The season was defined by the stunning form of Brazilian striker Aílton Gonçalves, nicknamed 'Kugelblitz' (Ball Lightning), whose 16 goals anchored the attack and placed him third in the league's scoring charts. Furthermore, the arrival of French maestro Johan Micoud filled the void left by Torsten Frings and provided the creative midfield spark that ultimately set the stage for Die Werderaner's triumphant league and cup double the following year.