The 2016-17 campaign delivered an instant return to the top flight for Hannover 96 as Die Roten finished a spectacular 2nd in the 2. Bundesliga, securing automatic promotion back to the Bundesliga at the first time of asking. Leading the charge was the prolific Austrian forward Martin Harnik, whose 17 goals proved decisive in a campaign built on attacking flair and crucial late-season form. The success was sealed under the guidance of André Breitenreiter, who took over in March and delivered the necessary results. It was a triumphant year that marked their immediate resurgence and remains a defining chapter of their modern history.