The 2010-11 campaign delivered a nerve-shredding survival for Real Sociedad, marking their dramatic return to La Liga after a three-season absence. The season began with a wave of optimism and an unexpectedly high point tally, but a mid-season slump saw the club in free fall under manager Martín Lasarte. The team ultimately clinched a crucial 15th-place finish on the final matchday, condemning rivals Deportivo de La Coruña. Leading the attack was the young, emerging talent Antoine Griezmann, who shared the top league goalscorer spot with veteran club icon Xabi Prieto, both netting 7 crucial goals in a turbulent year defined by a successful, last-gasp fight for top-flight status.