 On 28 July 2011 , Stoke beat <unk> Split 2 – 0 over two legs in the third qualifying round of the Europa League . It was Stoke 's first appearance in Europe in 37 years . Stoke would go on progress past FC Thun in the Play @-@ off round gaining entrance into the group stage where Stoke were handed a tough draw against <unk> , Dynamo Kyiv and Maccabi Tel Aviv . Stoke finished second in the group and were handed a glamour tie against Spanish giants Valencia in the round of 32 , following the draw manager Pulis stated that he is relishing the prospect of taking on one of Europe 's top clubs . Stoke lost both legs 1 – 0 to end their European campaign . Pulis received criticism from some supporters after he fielded a weakened team in the second leg . Stoke ended the 2011 – 12 season in 14th position in what was perceived to be a disappointing season . The 2012 – 13 season saw Stoke make little progress , finishing in 13th position . Pulis subsequently left the club by mutual consent on 21 May 2013 . 
