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.
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