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.
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