The 2009-10 campaign saw Cagliari (Casteddu) consolidate their Serie A status, finishing a safe 16th, comfortably clear of relegation. It was a breakout year for the forward Alessandro Matri, whose 13 crucial goals proved decisive in a season where he equaled club legend Gigi Riva's record by scoring in seven consecutive top-flight games. Under the formative guidance of manager Massimiliano Allegri, the team was also anchored by the brilliant playmaking of Andrea Cossu and the leadership of captain Daniele Conti. This successful, if turbulent, year marked Matri's emergence as a top Serie A striker and directly preceded Allegri's appointment as AC Milan's head coach.