The 2004-05 campaign was a spectacular season of resurgence for Espanyol as Los Pericos finished a brilliant 5th in La Liga, securing a coveted spot in the UEFA Cup for the following season. Leading the charge was the sensational Argentine midfielder Maxi Rodríguez, whose 15 goals proved vital, notably scoring a hat-trick against Real Betis and the winning goal in a memorable 1-0 victory against Galactico-era Real Madrid. Under manager Miguel Ángel Lotina, the season was built on grit, flair, and a solid defensive foundation featuring club legend Mauricio Pochettino, culminating in a triumphant return to European football.