The 2004-05 campaign was a season of dramatic turbulence and transition for Beşiktaş as the Black Eagles, despite wholesale changes and a difficult start under manager Vicente del Bosque, finished 4th in the Süper Lig. The team was anchored by the powerful new signing, Norwegian international John Carew, whose 13 crucial goals in his debut season provided the firepower necessary for a mid-season resurgence that included a memorable 2-1 victory over rivals Fenerbahçe. Ultimately, the season saw the club secure a vital European spot, though they fell short of the lofty ambitions initially set.