The 2013-14 campaign was a frustrating year of transition for Fortuna Düsseldorf as Die Flingeraner, newly relegated from the top flight, fell short of their promotion goal by finishing 6th in the 2. Bundesliga. Leading the charge was the prolific forward Charlison Benschop, whose 12 goals anchored the attack amidst a turbulent season that saw a managerial change from Mike Büskens to Oliver Reck. Despite showing a solid defense and moments of promise, the team's inconsistency and an early DFB-Pokal elimination to rivals 1860 Munich meant they were unable to secure a quick return to the top tier, marking a chapter defined by unmet ambition.