The 2016-17 campaign delivered a season of soaring hope and frustrating collapse for Hearts, as The Jam Tarts ultimately finished 5th in the Scottish Premiership. The year began with genuine ambition for a top-four European spot, spearheaded by the scintillating form of local hero Jamie Walker, whose 12 crucial league goals (15 total) topped the charts. However, the season was defined by mid-season turbulence when manager Robbie Neilson departed for MK Dons, leading to a visible slump under new boss Ian Cathro. Despite memorable home victories over rivals Rangers, the team's form faded after the split, ensuring they narrowly missed out on a European spot and leaving a lingering sense of unfulfilled potential at Tynecastle.