The solution is simple. Modify the sponsor system so that non-promoting teams are only eligible for the league wins token reward sponsor. Removing their main source of passive income hurts them the most. Also, dont allow non promoting teams to group in league with friends.
Frankly, i chose to tank this season in order to fully develop my new academy graduates and get into a good G1 assoc that will get plat next season. Ive ran into the same monster in cup semi final 2 seasons in a row and im glad not to face him again. Nobody uses negotiations the level before me which i dont like either. Tanking oneseason also allows you to use the new nego system to the fullest. I found two older players, not on the list, one mutant mc and a double sa striker for 11 and 10t total. No way i find 1 player in high 5* next season for 21t.
I also managed to manipulate the league so that i finish a safe 10th with a + GD leaving the top rated club in a must win game to take 1st. Just won nivea league and am happy to be in my first super cup. Everything working as planned.