The difference between this run and like five years ago, is that five years ago they said "if we qualify, Ivan's gonna start writing checks for great players!" This time, we did make some big moves, but we made them way, way, way too late.
I think the squad is improved from last year, and we might see further improvement by the end of the month. Shola's hiring certainly indicates Konstantelias is on his way out (which I am very fine with), and the recent news of interest in Koulierakis probably means he's gone soon, too. I am also very fine with that. Selling those two players will more than cover every acquisition we've made this summer, with money left over for a few more good players.
Qualifying for Europa League should be pretty straightforward, and will net even more prize money. We will be much more competitive in that league, and should be much stronger domestically as well. So, to reiterate: look on the bright side.