The 2008-09 campaign delivered a devastating end to an era for Alavés as the Babazorros finished a crushing 19th in the Segunda División, resulting in relegation to the third tier, Segunda División B. This sporting failure was compounded by severe financial difficulties, marking a historic low point for the club just eight years after their famous UEFA Cup Final appearance. Leading the charge in the turbulent season was the striker Javi Guerra, whose 9 goals were a lone bright spot in a year defined by struggle and the collapse of the top-flight dream.