I hate to super stats heavy, but most objective measures have us as a significantly better team than last year. We were very lucky to finish 8th last year - ridiculously lucky, actually - and a bit unlucky to be in the spot we are in this year. Over time, with a team that is comfortable trying to do what Silva wants them to do, we will perform better.
The players still aren't good enough in many instances. And to not give Silva the players in central midfield to be able to aptly play his system isn't fair, but my guess is that will be ironed out soon enough. Next year should be better for certain. We'll see how much better Wolves, Watford, and Tottenham / Chelsea / Arsenal/ Man U get, too.