The 2004-05 campaign delivered a triumphant return to the top flight for Saint-Étienne as Les Verts surged to a remarkable 6th-place finish in Ligue 1 in their first season back after a three-year absence, securing a coveted Intertoto Cup spot. Leading the charge was the fan-favorite winger Pascal Feindouno, whose 13 league goals (and the club's overall top scorer, Frédéric Piquionne, with 16 goals) provided the attacking flair. Under returning manager Élie Baup, and built on a new philosophy of youth and a solid defense that conceded a mere 34 goals, it was a pivotal year that re-established the historic club among the French elite and remains a cherished chapter in their modern history.