Ten out of 11 ain’t bad, right?
Newcastle United recorded their 10th victory in 11 in all competitions on Saturday, with a comprehensive 3-1 win at Southampton.
An early Jan Bednarek header did have some jittering, but an Alexander Isak double and a quite wonderfully direct and driving goal from man of the match Sandro Tonali ensured all three points were safe on the south coast for the Magpies.
The result, coupled with others at the weekend, meant Eddie Howe’s men now occupy fifth place in the top flight table - and, as things stand, that looks likely to be enough to secure a Champions League slot for next season.
But what does the result really mean for the Magpies’ season as a whole? We asked AI tool ‘Grok’ where each team would finish come May this campaign - and the results, at least for some, may well surprise.
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