I'm not sure what sort of challenge I want from FM12 anymore...

As I'm getting older, I'm finding harder to find what sort of challenge I really want from this game.

I always seem to buy the game on release day, but then once the January Transfer Window opens in real life, I find myself wanting to start a new save with updated squads, then I think I'll do a Man United save (my supported team) but that never lasts long as its too easy, but since FM12 via Steam, once an update is available, I have to re-install the game to update (apple mac).

So, my main question is, if I start a save now, and end up in the Hall of Fame on my game, if I have to re-install the game come any January update, will I lose my Hall of Fame status, even if I back up my save file? Also when is the January update patch usually out?

I'm reluctant to start a game until any Transfer Patch is released, but that could be 6-8 weeks.