No One Saw Them Coming

These Are Europe's Surprise Champions from 1970 – 2020. Underdogs, Disparaged, Unforgettable, One-Hit Wonders

Part 1 - From 1970 until 1985

Their Name Was Nobody. This is about the no-names who were considered relegation candidates from the start. In the Bundesliga, Bayern Munich has been the perennial champion for years. In Spain, it's either "Barca" or Real, while in Italy and France, Juventus Turin and Paris St. Germain have been dominating the title races for years. In England, "rich club" Manchester City has established itself as the primary contender for the championship. Since 2018, Klopp's Liverpool, backed by millions from an American investor, has also been staking new and old claims. In Scotland, Celtic Glasgow and Glasgow Rangers have been a given. Boring, right?

But it's not always been that way, and it doesn't have to be. Sometimes, clubs outside the usual favorites circle win the championship. And then there are the big surprises. The nobodies who are more likely to be relegation candidates but end up becoming champions quite unexpectedly. This doesn't happen often, but it has happened. And not just in the second-tier leagues of Europe.

We've summarized the stories of 26 sensational champions in European leagues from 1970 until 2020—a championship journey through five decades. The major leagues include the Bundesliga, the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and Ligue 1, along with some minor leagues.

In Germany, coaches whom Bayern Munich had just fired created championship miracles. The Bundesliga is represented four times. Twice, it's coaches who had just been dismissed by Bayern Munich and showed the southern giants that firing them was not a good idea. The third sensational champion coach had a rocky relationship with Bayern long before his triumph – in the form of a rejected internship. Perhaps they should have at least replied! The fourth is not a 100% sensational champion but a surprise champion. Before his triumph, he parted ways with the "German Real Madrid" on bad terms.

We have organized our journey chronologically, starting in 1970. Called "the farmers" on the Rhine, they established a new dualism in German football. A coach whose unpredictability is every club president's nightmare led two no-name clubs to the top in another top league. For that, he thinks, one can interrupt a vacation...

Our absolute favorite is the club of the Nearly Man, who in 2016 managed to defeat all the fat cats of the world's biggest league – thanks to the lightheartedness of a striker who once had one foot in prison. Here are Europe's surprise champions...

1. Borussia M?nchengladbach 1969/70 – The Beginning of a New Era

Hennes Weisweiler was disgruntled in the summer of 1969. "If we don't win the championship this time, I'm leaving," said the stubborn Rhinelander, who had led Borussia M?nchengladbach to the Bundesliga in 1965 against all odds. With his attacking football and young, hungry local players, including the blond playmaker Günter Theodor Netzer, Hans-Hubert ("Berti") Vogts, and Herbert "Hacki" Wimmer, he had secured third place twice in the preceding years. But that wasn't enough for the strict tactician.

He bolstered the defense with Ludwig "Luggi" Müller from the recently relegated champions 1. FC Nürnberg and Stuttgart's Klaus-Dieter Sieloff (? 2011). Despite these reinforcements, the first matchday didn't go as planned. Borussia M?nchengladbach lost 0-2 to FC Schalke 04. The turning point came just a week later: in their eighth attempt, Gladbach finally defeated their fellow 1965 Bundesliga newcomers, FC Bayern Munich (2-1), and on the eleventh matchday, they secured the top spot with a 5-1 victory over Alemannia Aachen. By Christmas 1969, Weisweiler's boys were sitting comfortably at the top of the table with a five-point lead over the reigning champions from the Isar.

In 1970, "General Winter" had a firm grip on the Bundesliga. On January 10, 1970, for the first time in the league's history, an entire matchday had to be canceled. Snow and ice on the field – there were no heated pitches back then – turned the turf into a quagmire. "Who will thaw the Bundesliga?" asked the Sport-Illustrierte Kicker in desperation. The same question was likely on the minds of the Gladbach players, who lost three consecutive matches between April 15 and April 21, 1970, due to the scheduling chaos.

The championship bid wavered once more. But the surprise was complete on April 30, 1970: "The Foals," as their fans called the spirited team, wavered in a 4-3 victory after leading 4-0 against Hamburger SV, but it was enough. Borussia M?nchengladbach became German champions for the first time, ushering in a new era in German football. In the following seven years, only the names of Gladbach and FC Bayern would be engraved on the Bundesliga trophy. With Müller and Sieloff playing 33 matches each, M?nchengladbach boasted the league's most vigorous defense, conceding only 29 goals.

All of M?nchengladbach celebrated the title – even the clergy were euphoric. After the 4-3 win against HSV, the church bells rang in the Eicken district, where Borussia was initially founded.

Borussia M?nchengladbach 1969/70: Did you know?

The 1969/70 season marked a transformative chapter in German football as Borussia M?nchengladbach captured their first Bundesliga title, setting the stage for a period of dominance that would make them one of Germany's premier clubs.

The Build-Up

Led by the astute Hennes Weisweiler, Borussia M?nchengladbach had been steadily building a formidable team since their promotion to the Bundesliga in 1965. Known for his innovative and attacking style of play, Weisweiler relied heavily on young, local talent, blending them with experienced players to create a balanced and dynamic squad.

Key Players

• Günter Netzer: The blond playmaker was the heart of M?nchengladbach's midfield. Netzer's vision, passing, and leadership were crucial to the team's success. His ability to dictate the game's tempo and deliver precise set-pieces made him one of the season's standout players.
• Berti Vogts: Nicknamed "The Terrier," Vogts' tenacious defending and boundless energy was vital to the team. His defensive prowess earned him recognition as one of the best defenders in the league.
• Herbert "Hacki" Wimmer: A tireless midfielder known for his work rate and tactical intelligence, Wimmer played a crucial role in linking the defense and attack.

Season Highlights

• Historic Victory Over Bayern Munich: One of the season's pivotal moments came when M?nchengladbach defeated Bayern Munich 2-1 in their eighth attempt, signaling their readiness to compete at the highest level.
• Top of the Table at Christmas: By Christmas 1969, M?nchengladbach was sitting at the top of the Bundesliga with a five-point lead over Bayern Munich, a significant psychological advantage heading into the second half of the season.

Defensive Strength

M?nchengladbach's defense was the best in the league, conceding only 29 goals throughout the season. Adding Ludwig "Luggi" Müller and Klaus-Dieter Sieloff proved crucial in fortifying the backline, providing stability and experience.

Special Events and Trivia

• Winter Disruptions: The Bundesliga experienced an unprecedented winter disruption in January 1970, with an entire matchday canceled due to snow and ice, highlighting the harsh playing conditions of the time.
• Unbeaten at Home: M?nchengladbach was formidable at their home ground, the B?kelbergstadion, maintaining an unbeaten record that contributed significantly to their title run.

Quotes

• Hennes Weisweiler: "If we don't win the championship this time, I'm leaving," Weisweiler famously declared at the beginning of the season, underscoring his determination and high standards.
• Günter Netzer: Reflecting on the title win, Netzer said, "It was a culmination of years of hard work and belief in our style of play. Weisweiler's philosophy made us champions."

Legacy

The 1969/70 title was just the beginning for Borussia M?nchengladbach. Over the next decade, they would win multiple Bundesliga titles and establish themselves as a German and Eurtball powerhouse. This season laid the foundation for their future success and cemented their place in football history.

The triumph of 1969/70 remains a defining moment in the club's history, symbolizing the rise of Borussia M?nchengladbach and the brilliance of Hennes Weisweiler's managerial prowess.

2. Derby County 1971/72 – The Poor Club That Became Champions

Until 1967, Derby County led a shadowy existence in the lower tiers of English football in the tranquil East Midlands. That changed when he arrived. Brian Howard Clough (1935 – 2004), the manager whose career would later inspire the scandalous book "The Damned United" by David Peace (2006) and its 2009 film adaptation starring Michael Sheen as Clough.

Clough brought his assistant Peter Taylor with him to Derby. This dynamic duo would turn Derby into one of the greatest surprise champions in English football history. After all, the last major success of the "Rams" was a few days old: FA Cup winners in 1946. Expectations for the then 41-year-old coach were low. It wasn't until his second year at Derby that "Cloughie," as the quirky and stubborn coach was affectionately known on the island, managed to secure promotion to the First Division. A key signing on the way to the top flight was midfielder Dave Mackay from Tottenham Hotspur. The playmaker led Derby to the First Division in 1969 and was named FWA Footballer of the Year—a typical Clough transfer, as Mackay was already 33 years old at the time of his move.

Vacation Before the Season Finale: Clough Would Be the "King of Cool" Today

The team finished fourth in Mackay's last year, 1970/71. However, due to "financial irregularities," they could not participate in European competitions. This only fueled Clough and his team's determination.

It was a season entirely of peculiarities. Clough used the fewest players of all 22 clubs, just 16. His players were stingy with goals, scoring only 69 times in 42 league matches, with John O'Hara netting 13 goals. On the final matchday, the surprise was complete. With a 1-0 win against Liverpool, the "Rams" jumped from third to first place – and were crowned champions. Clough had a sleeve that would likely earn him the title "King of Cool" today. Shortly before the season's end, he went on vacation with his family and sent his team on a football-drinking tour to Mallorca. Back home, title rivals Leeds United and Liverpool faltered, allowing Derby to clinch the title on the final day, May 8, 1972, in a direct duel with the "Reds."

Clough's seriousness about the Derby project was evident in the following season. Although Derby County finished only seventh in the English league, they reached the semifinals of the European Cup. Juventus proved too strong, but Clough showed his unpredictability once again. He accused the Italian record champions of bribery and called the "Juve" stars, including Helmut Haller, "cheating bastards." The language used in the subsequent brief meeting with the board was likely just as blunt, as Clough left Derby County in 1973 to the dismay of the fans – and joined arch-rivals Leeds United. All attempts to change his mind failed. By 1976, Derby County was relegated. Clough himself lasted only 44 days at Leeds United after falling out with his old rival, Leeds boss Don Revie ("The Gaffer"), and stars like Scot Billy Bremner (? 1997) and England World Cup winner Norman "Bites Yer Legs" Hunter—movie-worthy material.

Derby County 1971/72: Did you know?

The 1971/72 season saw Derby County, under the astute management of Brian Clough and his assistant Peter Taylor, achieve one of the most remarkable triumphs in English football history. Derby's championship win is a testament to Clough's genius and his squad's rise from obscurity to glory.

The Build-Up

Before Clough's arrival, Derby County had spent years languishing in the lower divisions. Clough, a charismatic and often controversial figure, took charge in 1967 and began an ambitious project to transform the club. His partnership with Peter Taylor was instrumental in this transformation, as they meticulously built a team capable of competing at the highest level.

Key Players

• Dave Mackay: Signed from Tottenham Hotspur, Mackay's leadership and experience were pivotal. At 33, he was named FWA Footballer of the Year for his contributions.
• Roy McFarland and Colin Todd: This defensive duo provided a solid foundation, ensuring Derby had one of the tightest defenses in the league.
• John O'Hare: The team's top scorer with 13 league goals, O'Hare's striking prowess was crucial in critical matches.

Season Highlights

• Unbeaten Start: Derby began the season strongly, showcasing their potential as title contenders.
• Crucial Victory Over Liverpool: A 1-0 win against Liverpool on the season's final day clinched the title for Derby, leapfrogging them over their rivals.
• Minimal Squad Utilization: Clough used only 16 players throughout the season, demonstrating his ability to get the best out of a small squad.

Defensive Strength

Derby County's defense was among the best in the league, conceding only 33 goals. This defensive resilience was a cornerstone of their success, with McFarland and Todd's partnership being particularly noteworthy.

Special Events and Trivia

• Brian Clough's Holiday: In a move that epitomized Clough's confidence, he went on holiday before the season finale, trusting his team to get the job done. His faith was rewarded as Derby clinched the title.
• Financial Irregularities: Derby finished fourth in the previous season but was barred from European competition due to financial irregularities. This setback only fueled their determination to succeed domestically.
• Bill Shankly's Pep Talk: Liverpool's legendary manager Bill Shankly visited Derby's dressing room during a halftime break, delivering a motivational speech that inspired the team to aim for the title.

Quotes

• Brian Clough: Known for his bluntness, Clough famously said, "I wouldn't say I was the best manager in the business, but I was in the top one." His confidence and self-belief were vital to Derby's success.
• Dave Mackay: Reflecting on the season, Mackay said, "Winning the title was a dream come true. We had a fantastic group of players, and Clough's belief in us made all the difference."

Legacy

Derby County's 1971/72 title win is remembered as one of the greatest underdog stories in English football. Clough and Taylor's management style, characterized by meticulous preparation and psychological acumen, laid the groundwork for future successes. Clough would achieve even greater heights with Nottingham Forest, but his work at Derby remains a defining chapter in his career.

For Derby County, the championship win marked their first and, to date, only top-flight title. It was a period of unprecedented success that remains a source of immense pride for the club and its supporters. The 1971/72 season is notable for the triumph and for how it was achieved—with grit, determination, and a touch of Clough's magic.

3. Nottingham Forest 1977/78 – The Perfect Ascendancy

In the 1977/78 season, Nottingham Forest pulled off a genuine sensation in England under manager Brian Clough. The team won the First Division title as newly promoted. This was the first league title in the club's history. Remarkably, Nottingham used only 16 players throughout the season, the fewest in the entire league. Clough had achieved this same feat five years earlier with Derby County. Winning the title with a minimal squad was just one chapter in the story of the unconventional master coach. Nottingham Forest and their cult manager Brian Clough astonished football Europe with their modern short-passing game.

Before the championship season, during the "Tricky Trees'" summer holiday in Cala Millor, a seaside resort on the Spanish Balearic island of Mallorca, there were severe doubts. The players tried to drink away their fear of relegation. "We seriously questioned during this trip whether we could even survive a year in the top flight," Forest midfielder Martin O'Neill recalled years later. The good-natured Northern Irishman O'Neill and his teammates didn't know that the eccentric manager Brian Clough had already reinforced the team using unconventional methods. He sent his assistant and shadow man Peter Taylor, disguised with a floppy hat and glasses, to a dog track to negotiate with striker Kenny Burns from Birmingham City. Burns had a bad reputation, known as a drinker and a gambler. But Clough signed him for the equivalent of 175,000 euros – and converted the Scotsman into a defender.

Coaching Legend: "Go Get the Title!"

Soon after, the team experienced another surprise. On August 20, 1977, during halftime of their first First Division match against title favorites Everton (3-1), an unexpected guest appeared in the locker room. It was Liverpool's legendary manager, Bill Shankly. The revered master coach delivered an impromptu speech that shook the walls for the professional underdogs from Nottingham. "Don't just play in the First Division," Shankly roared at the astonished players, "go out and get the title."

Another top transfer by Clough proved to be the signing of goalkeeper Peter Shilton from Stoke City. The English national keeper commanded the league's best defense in the 1977/78 season. Nottingham Forest conceded only 24 goals in 42 matches – and sensationally won the English championship as a newly promoted team. Viv Anderson, a 21-year-old defensive jewel with excellent positioning, became England's first black national player. "It was incredible to win the championship when you consider where we were a year earlier," said Martin O'Neill in a 2013 TV documentary. Only Clough remained cool: "It's just a job done."

In 1979, Nottingham stormed into the European Cup final. A diving header goal from Trevor Francis at Munich's Olympiastadion against Sweden's Malm? FF (1-0) elevated Forest to the pinnacle of European football. A year later, they repeated their success in the European Cup with a 1-0 victory against Hamburger SV in Madrid. While Nottingham finished as English league runners-up in 1979, they only managed fifth place at the end of their second European Cup season. In his second tenure, Clough won the English League Cup with Forest in 1989 and 1990 and developed future superstars Roy Keane and Teddy Sheringham. However, the master coach couldn't prevent the club's relegation from the newly created Premier League in 1993. The club even suffered another relegation in 2001. Since then, Nottingham has only achieved moderate standings and successes. Remarkably, from November 1977, the team remained unbeaten in 42 league games across seasons, a record that stood until Arsenal matched it in 2004.

Nottingham Forest 1977/78: Did you know?

The 1977/78 season saw Nottingham Forest achieve one of the most improbable successes in football history. Under the guidance of Brian Clough, Forest not only secured promotion to the First Division but went on to win the league title in their very first season back, a feat that has rarely been matched.

The Build-Up

Nottingham Forest had been a middling club in the lower divisions for years before Brian Clough took over in January 1975. Clough, known for his charismatic and often controversial personality, brought a wealth of experience and an unshakable belief in his methods. His assistant, Peter Taylor, was crucial in scouting and tactical planning.

Key Players

• Peter Shilton: Signed from Stoke City, Shilton's arrival was a game-changer. His goalkeeping prowess was instrumental, and a commanding presence at the back.
• Kenny Burns: Originally a striker, Burns was converted to a central defender by Clough. His transformation was remarkable, and he became a cornerstone of Forest's defense.
• John Robertson: A critical, creative force, Robertson's dribbling skills and vision provided numerous assists and crucial goals throughout the season.

Season Highlights

• Opening Victory: Forest started their campaign with a surprising 3-1 victory over Everton, setting the tone for the season.
• Minimal Squad Usage: Clough utilized only 16 players throughout the season, a testament to his ability to maintain a consistent and fit squad.
• Offensive Prowess: Despite their defensive stability, Forest's attack was equally formidable, with players like Tony Woodcock and John Robertson leading the charge and creating numerous scoring opportunities.

Key Strength: The Goalkeeper

Peter Shilton's goalkeeping was exceptional throughout the season. His reflexes, command of the area, and ability to organize the defense were vital to Forest's success. Shilton's performances earned him widespread acclaim and were crucial in many tight matches where his saves made the difference.

Special Events and Trivia

• Unbeaten Run: From November 1977, Forest embarked on an unbeaten run that extended into the following season, spanning 42 league matches. This record stood until Arsenal matched it in 2004.
• Bill Shankly's Pep Talk: In a memorable moment, Liverpool legend Bill Shankly visited the Forest dressing room at halftime during their first First Division match and inspired the players with a rousing speech.

Quotes

• Brian Clough: "We talk about it for 20 minutes, and then we decide I was right," Clough famously said, illustrating his self-confidence and authoritative style.
• Peter Shilton: Reflecting on the season, Shilton said, "It was an incredible journey. We had a great mix of experienced players and young talent, and Clough knew how to get the best out of us."

Legacy

The 1977/78 season was not just a triumph for Nottingham Forest but also a testament to Brian Clough's genius. His ability to build a cohesive unit from a modest squad, tactical acumen, and psychological insights were critical to Forest's league win in 1979, followed by back-to-back European Cup victories in 1980, cementing their place in football history. For many, the 1977/78 season remains the pinnacle of the club's achievements and a shining example of what can be achieved with vision, leadership, and teamwork.

The legacy of that season continues to inspire Nottingham Forest fans and serves as a benchmark for underdog success stories in football. Brian Clough's tenure at Forest remains one of the most celebrated managerial reigns in the sport's history, characterized by audacious decisions, memorable quotes, and unparalleled success.

4. Racing Strasbourg 1978/79 – Arsène Wenger's Sole Title as a Player

The club from Alsace had only returned to France's top league, Division 1, in 1977. When the league kicked off on July 28, 1978, fans and experts anticipated title contenders AS Monaco or the three-time consecutive champions AS Saint-étienne (ASSE). However, Racing Strasbourg, coached by Swiss tactician and former Stuttgart professional Gilbert Gress, had two players who would later make significant names for themselves as coaches.

These players were Arsène Wenger, born in Strasbourg in 1949 and already at the zenith of his playing career, and the three-years-younger Raymond Domenech. Wenger, who would start his coaching career as a youth coach at Racing Strasbourg in 1980, achieved legendary status as the manager of Arsenal FC with three English championships and seven FA Cup titles over 22 years in LoOnch, on the other Domenech hand, became known as the French national coach who led his team to the 2006 World Cup final and for the infamous player mutiny during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Domenech and Wenger Shine in Strasbourg's Defense

Wenger and Domenech's championship win with Strasbourg would be their only French league title as players. Domenech played 37 matches in the championship year, while Wenger featured in only two. Together with defenders Léonard Specht and Jean-Jacque, they formed a solid defense that conceded only 28 goals—the best defensive record in the league that season.

In the 1978/79 season, Strasbourg engaged in a tight race with eventual runners-up FC Nantes and Saint-étienne. Racing first reached the top spot on the fifth matchday and, by November 1978, had a three-point lead over defending champions Monaco and five over Saint-étienne. However, setbacks followed, including a loss at Paris (then only 13th in the table), a draw at home against Laval, and a 0-3 defeat at Nantes.

The decisive moment came on the 38th and final matchday when Racing Strasbourg clinched the title with a 3-0 victory at Olympique Lyon. Throughout the season, Racing Strasbourg remained unbeaten at their "fortress," Stade de la Meinau.

Racing Strasbourg 1978/79: Did you know?

The 1978/79 season saw Racing Strasbourg triumph by winning their first and only French Division 1 title. Under the guidance of Swiss manager Gilbert Gress, the team defied expectations and showcased a blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance.

The Build-Up

Racing Strasbourg had returned to France's top league, Division 1, in 1977. Gilbert Gress, a former Stuttgart professional, took charge and quickly made his mark with a focus on solid defense and team cohesion. Gress's approach was instrumental in turning Strasbourg into a title contender.

Key Players

• Arsène Wenger: Born in Strasbourg and the twilight of his playing career, Wenger was part of the squad and would later become a legendary manager. Although he played only two matches this season, his presence and football intelligence were invaluable.
• Raymond Domenech: The young defender played 37 matches and was a vital defense component. Domenech later managed the French national team, taking them to the 2006 World Cup final.
• Leonard Specht and Jean-Jacques Marx: These defenders, along with Domenech, formed a robust backline, contributing to Strasbourg's impressive defensive record.

Season Highlights

• Top of the Table: Strasbourg reached the league's top on the fifth matchday and onto their lead, showcasing their consistency and resilience.
• Victory Over Lyon: On the final matchday, the title was secured with a 3-0 win against Olympique Lyon, capping off a remarkable season.

Key Strength: Defensive Solidity

Strasbourg's defense was the best in the league, conceding only 28 goals throughout the season. The combination of experienced players and Gilbert Gress's tactical acumen ensured that Strasbourg remained tough to break down. This defensive strength was a cornerstone of their title-winning campaign.

Special Events and Trivia

• Limited Squad Usage: Like Clough's approach at Nottingham Forest, Gress relied on a core group of players, using only a tiny squad throughout the season.
• Unbeaten at Home: Racing Strasbourg remained unbeaten at their home ground, Stade de la Meinau, during the entire season, turning it into a fortress.
• Wenger and Domenech: Both players later achieved significant success as managers. Wenger became one of the most respected figures in football for his time at Arsenal, and Domenech led France to the 2006 World Cup final.

Quotes

• Gilbert Gress: Reflecting on the season, Gress said, "We believed in our collective strength and ability to overcome any challenge. The team's unity was our greatest asset."
• Arsène Wenger: In later years, Wenger remarked, "Winning the title with Strasbourg was a special moment. It taught me the importance of teamwork and resilience."

Legacy

Racing Strasbourg's 1978/79 title win remains a historic achievement for the club. It highlighted the potential of a well-organized team to overcome the odds and achieve greatness. While Strasbourg has had fluctuating fortunes since then, including periods in lower divisions, the 1978/79 season is remembered with immense pride.

This triumph also marked the beginning of the careers of Wenger and Domenech, who would both go on to leave significant marks on football.

5. Hellas Verona 1984/85 An Embarrassment for Italy's Big Clubs

Hellas Verona achieved the greatest football miracle in Italy until 2020 in 1985. Just three years prior, the team from the north won the Italian Serie B championship, ascended to Serie A, and shortly after that won the championship. Among their ranks was the German European champion Hans-Peter Briegel.

Thanks to this success, the "Walz aus der Pfalz" (the "Steamroller from the Palatinate"), as the powerful yet athletic defender was called, was even named Germany's "Footballer of the Year." In 1984, Briegel left 1. After ten years in their youth and professional ranks, FC Kaiserslautern is seeking a new challenge abroad at the age of 28. The vice-world champion of 1982 and 1986 became the first player outside the Bundesliga to receive this honor. He was presented with the trophy during a friendly match against 1. FC Kaiserslautern at the Betzenberg in the summer of 1985. A better homecoming couldn't be imagined.

To this day, the 1985 championship remains Verona's only title. In 1988, while playing for Sampdoria Genoa, Briegel won the Coppa Italia, the Italian Cup.

They ended in the 1984/85 Serie A season with two outsiders at the top. Hellas Verona secured the championship ahead of AC Turin, which also was not considered a top club. The big spenders from Piedmont and Lombardy, Inter and AC Milan, and Juventus Turin were humiliated, finishing in third, fifth, and sixth places, respectively. Hellas Verona, with Guiseppe Galderisi (11 goals that season) as their only real striker, was far from a team of unknowns.

In addition to Briegel and Italian national player Antonio di Gennaro, another notable name shone in coach Osvaldo Bagnoli's squad: Preben Elkjaer-Larsen. The Danish striker would make headlines a year after the championship coup with "Danish Dynamite" during the Scandinavians' World Cup debut.

At home, Hellas Verona was frugal with goals. Three of 15 home matches that season ended 0-0, and they won three more with the narrowest margin, 1-0. Since then, the club has experienced constant ups and downs. 2010, they played in the third division, but by 2013, they were back in Serie A. In the 2015/2016 season, the Northern Italians finished last in Serie A and played in the second division during the 2016/2017 season, where they finished second. Though they were not contending for the title, they. They returned to Serie A in the 2019/2020 title.

Hellas Verona 1984/85: Did you know?

The 1984/85 season remains etched in football history as Hellas Verona pulled off one of the most surprising title wins in Serie A. Under the guidance of Osvaldo Bagnoli and with the influential presence of German international Hans-Peter Briegel, Verona defied the odds to secure their first and only Serie A championship.

The Build-Up

Hellas Verona had only been promoted to Serie A three years prior, having won the Serie B championship. Osvaldo Bagnoli, a tactician known for his pragmatic and disciplined approach, transformed Verona into a formidable unit capable of challenging the traditional powerhouses of Italian football.

Key Players

• Hans-Peter Briegel: The "Walz aus der Pfalz" (Steamroller from the Palatinate) was a key signing from 1. FC Kaiserslautern. Briegel's athleticism and versatility, playing as a defender and sometimes as a midfielder, were crucial to Verona's success. His performances earned him the title of Germany's Footballer of the Year in 1985.
• Preben Elkjaer-Larsen: The Danish striker was instrumental in Verona's attack. Known for his dynamic playing style and ability to score crucial goals, Elkjaer-Larsen became a fan favorite.
• Antonio Di Gennaro: The Italian international midfielder orchestrated the play from the park's center, contributing significantly to defense and attack.

Season Highlights

• Top of the Table Early On: Verona took the lead in the league early in the season and consistently stayed in contention, demonstrating their resilience and tactical acumen.
• Crucial Victory Over Juventus: A pivotal moment in their campaign was the 2-0 victory over Juventus, which solidified their belief and pushed them closer to the title.
• Clinching the Title: Verona secured the championship with a decisive 3-0 victory against Torino on the final matchday, showcasing their dominance throughout the season.

Key Strength: Tactical Discipline

Bagnoli's tactical discipline was a cornerstone of Verona's success. The team's ability to execute defensive strategies effectively while transitioning quickly into attack made them a formidable opponent. Verona conceded only 19 goals in 30 matches, the best defensive record in the league, highlighting their strategic and organized approach.

Special Events and Trivia

• Hans-Peter Briegel's Recognition: Briegel's outstanding season saw him become the first player outside the Bundesliga to be named Germany's Footballer of the Year. He received the award during a friendly match against his former club, 1. FC Kaiserslautern, at the Betzenberg.
• Danish Dynamite: Preben Elkjaer-Larsen would later become a star at the 1986 World Cup, further highlighting the quality of Verona's squad.
• Home Fortress: Hellas Verona remained unbeaten at their home ground, Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi, throughout the season, turning it into a fortress.

Quotes

• Osvaldo Bagnoli: Reflecting on the season, Bagnoli said, "We built our success on hard work and unity. The players believed in the system and carried us through the toughest challenges."
• Hans-Peter Briegel: "Winning the Serie A with Verona was incredible. It showed that even the smallest club can achieve great things with the right mindset and teamwork."

Legacy

Hellas Verona's 1984/85 title win is celebrated as one of the greatest underdog stories in Serie A history. It demonstrated that tactical discipline, team unity, and strategic planning could overcome Italy's most prominent clubs' financial and historical advantages.

The success also cemented Osvaldo Bagnoli's reputation as a master tactician and highlighted the importance of key players like Briegel and Elkjaer-Larsen. Verona's triumph remains a source of inspiration, reminding fans and players alike that football's magic often lies in its unpredictability and the ability of the underdog to rise to greatness.

Next

Part 2: From 1988 until 1998, covering Blackburn Rovers, 1. FC Kaiserslautern, RC Lens and more