I know more than one person who are researchers. I've discussed things with the Villa researcher and he's implemented a few of my suggestions. If you're suggesting it's some kind of conspiracy or illusion then you're pretty ******* stupid, as it goes against SI's word, the researcher's existences and also common sense, since SI get lots of good quality information for free from those researchers.
Frankly, I'd be more inclined to believe their researcher over you. There's a whole range of reasons why your 'problem' applies in game. Not to mention the fact that you did invest quite heavily: Rodriguez, Davis, Mayuka, Clyne, Forren, Yoshida and Ramirez, off the top of my head. That's why Southampton have a reduced transfer and wage budget: they've already spent it.