The 1999-00 campaign was an astonishing debut for the newly-promoted Rayo Vallecano as Rayistas, under manager Juande Ramos, secured a remarkable 9th-place finish in La Liga. Spearheading the attack was centre-forward Manuel Canabal, whose 11 crucial league goals led the scoring charts, proving vital in their consolidation. Most memorably, this successful fight for a mid-table spot was rewarded with a historic qualification for the UEFA Cup, earned uniquely via the UEFA Fair Play award. It was a golden, unforgettable year that marked a triumphant return to the top flight and remains a defining chapter in the club's modern history.