- 1996-1999 Away Jersey
- Players: Erwin Koeman, Patrick Lodewijks, Leonardo dos Santos Silva
- Brand: Puma
- Sponsor: Anoz
FC Groningen’s 1996–97 season was a painful one, ending with relegation after more than a decade in the Eredivisie. The club struggled throughout the campaign, spending most of the season in the bottom places and failing to build momentum despite occasional encouraging results. Groningen had particular problems in defence and found it difficult to convert performances into points. As pressure mounted, survival became increasingly unlikely, and the season ultimately concluded with a drop to the Eerste Divisie. Despite the disappointment, several experienced players remained important figures during a difficult transition period for the club.
FC Groningen’s 1997–98 season was all about recovery after relegation from the Eredivisie. Playing in the Eerste Divisie, Groningen adapted quickly to life in the second tier and mounted a strong push for promotion. The team was competitive throughout the campaign, combining experienced players with emerging talent and showing far greater consistency than in the previous year. Strong performances at the Oosterpark helped keep Groningen near the top end of the table, and the club restored confidence among supporters after the disappointment of relegation. Although promotion was not achieved immediately, the season marked the start of Groningen’s rebuilding process.
FC Groningen’s 1996–97 season was a difficult and ultimately disappointing campaign that ended in relegation from the Eredivisie. The club struggled for consistency throughout the year, spending most of the season near the bottom of the table and finding it difficult to turn draws into victories. Defensive problems and a lack of goals proved costly, and despite some spirited performances in the Oosterpark Stadion, Groningen could not escape the relegation battle. The season marked the end of a long stay in the Dutch top flight and forced the club to rebuild in the Eerste Divisie.
