The 2011-12 campaign was a season of deep European ambition and domestic turmoil for Sporting CP. Despite ultimately finishing 4th in the Primeira Liga and losing the Portuguese Cup Final, the Leões mounted a stunning run to the UEFA Europa League Semi-finals, notably defeating Premier League champions-elect Manchester City along the way. Leading the charge was the newly-signed Dutch striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel, whose 25 goals in all competitions, including 14 in the league, quickly established him as the team's talisman in his debut season. This pivotal year, which saw the mid-season appointment of club legend Ricardo Sá Pinto as manager, was a defining chapter of European adventure and transition for the club.