You never thought it was going to be easy, did you? This is Newcastle United we’re talking about!
The Magpies cruised to a 3-0 home win over Ipswich Town at St James’ Park with goals from Alexander Isak, Dan Burn and William Osula seeing them retake the initiative in the Champions League race, after Chelsea won earlier in the day - and Aston Villa dropped points to Manchester City in the week. The result, as well as keeping top five hopes well and truly kicking for United, was the death knell for the visitors, who drop to the Championship at the first time of asking with defeat.
At the close of play on Saturday, the Magpies are third in the Premier League table, but could drop down by the next time they play - next Sunday at Brighton and Hove Albion. So we asked Grok, X’s AI tool, where each of the 20 Premier League teams would finish this season, with just five games left to play. And here’s where it thinks the Magpies will end their campaign.
1. Burnley - 19th
Burnley’s promotion brings them back, but their 2023/24 relegation exposed defensive frailties. Simulations predict all promoted sides will struggle, and Burnley’s lack of top-tier depth could see them drop. | Getty Images
2. Leeds United - 18th
Leeds return to the Premier League for 2025/26, but data suggests promoted sides struggle, with all three projected to go down. Their attacking style may not translate against stronger opposition, leading to relegation. | Getty Images
3. Brentford - 17th
Brentford’s established status under Thomas Frank is a strength, but their reliance on key players like Bryan Mbeumo (if he stays) and a potential Frank departure to a bigger club could destabilize them. A 17th-place finish reflects caution. | Getty Images
4. 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