The 1995-96 campaign was a pivotal season of establishment for Udinese as the Bianconeri returned to Serie A and began their long, continuous spell in the top flight, ultimately finishing 11th. Under new manager Alberto Zaccheroni, the team hit the ground running, transforming the Stadio Friuli into a fortress with an unbeaten home run until late December, including a famous 1-0 victory over giants Juventus. Spearheading this success was the unfancied German striker Oliver Bierhoff, whose 17 league goals, including the match-winning header on his debut against Cagliari, immediately proved his value and set the tone for his legendary run at the club. This year, built on a solid foundation and Bierhoff's clinical finishing, became the essential stepping stone for their future European successes.