The aims of the two could not be further apart, but for two weekends in the Premier League season their aims aligned.
Newcastle United are chasing another Champions League finish, while Sunderland just want to make sure it’s not the trap door.
The Magpies face a trip to the Stadium of Light for the first time in nearly a decade in the top flight on the weekend of December 13, while it’s March before the Mackems are ‘welcomed’ back to St James’ Park.
Now the fixtures are out - the full list can be read here - what does AI think of the chances of the two?
Will the Magpies fly high again, and what’s their hopes of remaining in Europe - they’ve not qualified in consecutive seasons since the 2000s - after their Champions League exploits? Will Sunderland beat the drop back to the Championship at the first attempt - and will they even put up a fight at all? Here’s AI tool Grok’s thoughts on where the two North East rivals will finish - and it’s fair to say the result is rather revealing.
9. Manchester United - 12th
United’s 2024/25 season has been dismal, with Ruben Amorim calling it the “worst squad in club history.” A projected 12th-place finish in 2025/26 reflects ongoing struggles. A mid-table finish is likely unless Amorim turns things around. | Getty Images
10. Everton - 11th
Everton’s move to their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium and potential new ownership could spark a revival. Their 2024/25 season has been relegation-adjacent, but a 11th-place projection for 2025/26 suggests incremental progress. | Getty Images
11. West Ham - 10th
West Ham’s struggles under Julen Lopetegui (four wins in 17 games) and Graham Potter’s shaky tenure suggest a transitional 2025/26. A mid-table finish seems likely unless results improve significantly. | Getty Images
12. Brighton & Hove Albion - 9th
Brighton’s innovative approach under Fabian Hurzeler has kept them competitive, but their 2024/25 form (mid-table) suggests a ceiling. Their attacking style and young squad could secure a top-half finish, especially with improved injury management. | Getty Images