The 2012-13 campaign delivered a shocking downturn for Inter Milan as the Nerazzurri slumped to a disappointing 9th-place finish in Serie A, missing out on European football for the first time since the 1990s. Leading the attack was the new forward Rodrigo Palacio, whose 12 goals proved a vital spark in a tumultuous season under manager Andrea Stramaccioni. Despite an incredible early 3-1 away victory over rivals Juventus that ended their legendary unbeaten run, inconsistency and a lack of defensive stability defined the year, which ultimately led to the manager's sacking and remains a painful chapter in the club's modern history.