 In his second season, Kieftenbeld played regularly in his preferred position in midfield. He scored his first goal for Groningen on 30 October 2011 in what finished up as their biggest win ever against Feyenoord, by six goals to nil. Kieftenbeld's goal was the second of the six, a powerful drive from 30 metres (33 yd). In the January transfer window, Groningen turned down what was described as a substantial bid for him from Belgian Pro League club Club Brugge; having let Danny Holla join VVV-Venlo on loan, they were not prepared to lose another midfielder. His performances over the season earned him the supporters' vote as Player of the Year.
