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.
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