I've had a look I'm forunate enough to have a very decent sized scouting budget and after checking i don't think this is what has impacted my save tbh, thanks for that suggestion though, I didn't even think that might something I'd need to keep an eye on at other clubs... which I will now!
Yeah, I initially started thinking this might be the problem, but since that post i have reduced the ratings, now half start current and 1 and a half potential just to try and narrow down the issue and still the same consulting our own staff message appears, and still it's only the China and African counties affected, I think it's a bug tbh, cheers for your suggestions though!
After the last week or two I've changed my scouting parameters and cancelled and set up new parameters with the most suitable staff but still no joy, so I definitely believe there is a bug. To be fair I've been ruining this game since FM23 came out and grew massively attached to my team so down want to down sticks. I will maybe run another game but and see if the issues occur there too.
I agree with your opinion on the scouting not being too awful, I feel it just needs a bit of adjusting. I feel we should be able to give at least the head scout some more specifics which could act as a further filter with regards to issues like injury proness or not being able to cope with big matches etc
Also to be fair when I set up my focus roughly 6 or 7 times out of 10 the recommended player is one I genuinely consider signing. However, my biggest gripe is that some scouts do recommended players from my rivals Rangers which just does not happen, and on occasion they recommend a player completely out my transfer/wage bracket too. but they tend to be few and far between. Just this consulting own staff issue that is the one thing something feels completely off with countries from Africa or China.
Thanks for the suggestions but!