Very true about next year. Its disappointing but their isn't much to be upset about regarding a 2nd place CL and 1st place league campaign.
I also have a great chance to see what I learned from last season tomorrow as I open the Champions League against the 4-3n-1-2. I'm probably going to start a 4-4-2 like you did in your final or 4-2-2-2 hexagon.
Good luck to you this season!