The 2016-17 campaign delivered a disastrous return to the top flight for Middlesbrough as The Boro finished a crushing 19th in the Premier League, resulting in immediate relegation back to the EFL Championship. The season, which saw manager Aitor Karanka dismissed mid-way due to a league-low total of just 27 goals scored, was a constant struggle for an offense that failed to capitalize on a respectable defensive record. Leading the attack was the experienced Spanish striker Álvaro Negredo, whose 9 crucial league goals anchored the team's frustrating search for a lifeline. It was a turbulent and painful year that ended their brief stay in the top tier and remains a difficult chapter in the club's modern history.