The dust has barely settled on the Premier League chapter that was 2024/25. And already we’re looking to 25/26 with excitement. What will Newcastle United do in the transfer window? What will the squad look like next season? How will the side cope with the rigours of a return to European football?
All first world problems a club like Newcastle United is now wants to deal with on a seasonal basis.
The Magpies ended this campaign with a damp squib, I think that’s fair to say. A laboured performance against Everton saw them sign off the season with a 1-0 home defeat. Another one to add to the list of St James’ struggles, along with Bournemouth, Brighton, West Ham and others. That record will undoubtedly have to improve, if United are to challenge at the real business end of the season, when titles are at stake.
We expect a busy summer at Newcastle, but will it bring about an improvement in performance? We asked AI to predict what will happen for the 2025/26 campaign - and it’s fair to say it threw up some interesting results - including for North East rivals Sunderland.
Here’s what Grok thinks will happen next season.
13. Tottenham Hotspur - 8th
A projected 13th-place finish in some simulations reflects managerial uncertainty. However, their squad quality and Europa League success could stabilize them for a mid-table finish with European qualification. | Getty Images
14. Nottingham Forest - 7th
Forest’s surprising 2024/25 success (33.6% chance of top-five finish) under Nuno Espírito Santo makes them a dark horse. Their counter-attacking style and defensive solidity could sustain a European push, but a top-six finish feels ambitious for 2025/26 without significant signings. | Getty Images
15. Aston Villa - 6th
Villa’s 2024/25 season (40.5% chance of top-five finish) under Unai Emery highlights their depth and Ollie Watkins’ goal-scoring prowess. Their ability to balance European and domestic competitions makes them a solid top-six candidate, though they may fall short of the top four due to stronger competition. | Getty Images
16. Chelsea - 5th
Chelsea’s inconsistent 2024/25 season (54.0% chance of top-five finish) under Enzo Maresca shows promise but lacks cohesion. Their talented squad, bolstered by young prospects like Tyrique George, could gel further by 2025/26. However, their lower backing from pundits (only one of ten predicts a top-five finish) and PSR-driven sales could limit progress. A top-five spot feels achievable if Maresca refines his system. | Getty Images