It’s the business end of the season and Newcastle United are again in a battle - for the third season in a row - to decide their European fate.
Two years ago it was a Champions League battle, with a return to the competition for the first time in two decades on the line. As we all know it had a happy ending. Last season was the opposite. After some top flight struggles the Magpies looked like they’d managed to squeeze into the UEFA Conference League for this season, only for Manchester United to claim a Europa League spot, despite finishing outside the top seven, thanks to their FA Cup triumph. The Magpies ended empty-handed, but every cloud, given the freedom to compete - and win - the Carabao Cup this campaign.
This season, Newcastle already have a Euro spot in the bag, but it’s just a case of which competition they’ll grace? Will it be a top five Champions League spot and the untold riches and transformation the competition would undoubtedly bring? Will it be another dalliance with the Europa League, not tackled since the days of Alan Pardew & Co? Or will it be the Conference League this time? Although very winnable, that’s the wooden spoon few, particularly the bean counters, want at St James’ Park next season.
At the close of play on Sunday, the Magpies are fourth in the Premier League table, but could drop down by the next time they play - next Sunday at home to rivals Chelsea. So we asked Grok, X’s AI tool, where each of the 20 Premier League teams would finish this season, with just three games left to play. And here’s where it thinks the Magpies will end their campaign.
(This table was done prior to Crystal Palace v Nottingham Forest)
5. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 16th
Wolves’ 2024/25 season has seen them climb from relegation fears, but losing stars like Matheus Cunha could hurt. A lower mid-table finish is likely unless they reinvest wisely. | Wolves via Getty Images
6. Fulham - 15th
Fulham’s stability under Marco Silva ensures a mid-table finish. Their 2024/25 form suggests they can compete but lack the firepower for a European push. | Getty Images
7. Bournemouth - 14th
Bournemouth’s 2024/25 season has been impressive, with their press and Antoine Semenyo’s form earning praise. A ninth-place finish is possible, but maintaining that level with key departures will be tough. | Getty Images
8. Crystal Palace - 13th
Palace’s strong 2024/25 under Oliver Glasner, driven by Jean-Philippe Mateta’s 33 goals over two seasons, suggests a stable mid-table finish. Their attacking flair could push them higher, but depth issues may cap their ceiling. | Getty Images