Expect the unexpected. If last Sunday told us anything about this season, it’s that. Very few expected Newcastle United to win the Carabao Cup, but they put in a performance like few others this campaign to walk home with their first domestic silverware in 70 years.
With 10 games left to play - six of which are at home - it makes you wonder what’s in store for the rest of the Premier League season? European football is already secured, but a return to the Champions League would ensure some financial freedoms the UEFA Conference League, which is what Newcastle have qualified for already, won’t.
Will the Wembley win inspire an end-of-season push for the top four, or five as it’s likely to be - or will it be after the lord mayor’s show and will the win see a drop off at the end of the campaign? Well, we asked AI tool Grok for its opinion - and here’s what it came up with.
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