The 2024-25 season will already go down as a historic one for Newcastle United - but could it get even better?
It’s exactly two weeks since the Magpies beat Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley to win the Carabao Cup and end their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy. And by doing so, United have also secured a place in next season’s Europa Conference League.
But Eddie Howe’s side have the opportunity of a far greater prize - the Champions League. They currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, one point behind fifth-place Manchester City and two behind fourth-place Chelsea, with a game in hand. Due to UEFA coefficient rules, a top-five finish should be enough to seal a spot in Europe’s prestigious competition.
So, will the Wembley win inspire an end-of-season push for the top five - or will it be after the lord mayor’s show and will the win see a drop off at the end of the campaign? We asked AI tool Grok for its opinion - and here’s what it came up with.
1. Burnley - 19th
Burnley’s promotion brings them back, but their 2023/24 relegation exposed defensive frailties. Simulations predict all promoted sides will struggle, and Burnley’s lack of top-tier depth could see them drop. | Getty Images
2. Leeds United - 18th
Leeds return to the Premier League for 2025/26, but data suggests promoted sides struggle, with all three projected to go down. Their attacking style may not translate against stronger opposition, leading to relegation. | Getty Images
3. Brentford - 17th
Brentford’s established status under Thomas Frank is a strength, but their reliance on key players like Bryan Mbeumo (if he stays) and a potential Frank departure to a bigger club could destabilize them. A 17th-place finish reflects caution. | Getty Images
4. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 16th
Wolves’ 2024/25 season has seen them climb from relegation fears, but losing stars like Matheus Cunha could hurt. A lower mid-table finish is likely unless they reinvest wisely. | Wolves via Getty Images