During the 2011 and 2012 Norwegian football campaigns (collectively spanning the 2011–12 UEFA Europa League cycle), Vålerenga Fotball experienced a period of regression following their runner-up finish in 2010. In domestic league play, the club finished 7th in the 2011 Tippeligaen and dropped further to 8th in 2012. On the continental stage, their 2011–12 Europa League run was cut short in the third qualifying round, where they were eliminated 5–0 on aggregate by Greek side PAOK. Due to the team's inability to replicate their past success, long-serving manager Martin Andresen mutually parted ways with the club in October 2012.