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)
17. Newcastle United - 4th
Newcastle’s strong 2024/25 campaign under Eddie Howe positions them as Champions League contenders. Players like Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimarães are pivotal, and their ability to manage a congested schedule will be key. Their projected top-four finish in some simulations reflects growing squad depth and tactical maturity. | Getty Images
18. Manchester City - 3rd
Despite a disappointing 2024/25 (sixth place, multiple losses), City’s potential to rebound is strong with Pep Guardiola’s motivation, Rodri’s return from injury, and January signings like Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez settling in. Their defense needs tightening, but their attacking firepower (Erling Haaland) and managerial nous make them a safe bet for a top-three finish. | Getty Images
19. Liverpool - 2nd
Liverpool’s dominant 2024/25 season under Arne Slot showcases their ruthless efficiency, led by Mohamed Salah’s 27 goals. However, the challenge of sustaining intensity post-title could see them slip slightly. Their minimal transfer activity last summer suggests reliance on the current squad, which may need refreshing to compete with a bolstered Arsenal. | AFP via Getty Images
20. Arsenal - CHAMPIONS
Arsenal have been consistently close to the title, finishing second in 2024/25 with a strong squad under Mikel Arteta. Their defensive solidity and attacking potential are well-established, but their lack of a clinical No. 9 (Kai Havertz with nine goals in 2024/25) has been a noted weakness. If they address this with a reliable centre-forward and a left-sided attacker to complement Bukayo Saka, as suggested by analysts, they could edge out competitors. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images