The 2010-11 campaign delivered a crucial season of survival for Cesena as the newly-promoted Cavallucci Marini clung onto their top-flight status, finishing a hard-fought 15th in Serie A after a 19-year absence. Under manager Massimo Ficcadenti, the team's grit and determination were key, anchored by the Chilean playmaker Luis Jiménez, whose 9 goals led the side. The season's most memorable moment was a sensational 2-0 victory over eventual champions AC Milan early in the campaign. The squad, featuring fan favorites like Marco Parolo, Emanuele Giaccherini, and loanees Yuto Nagatomo and Davide Santon, cemented a glorious, if stressful, chapter in the club's modern history.