Now, that was anything but pretty.
Newcastle United have gone toe-to-toe with the best the Premier League has to offer this season, and have never fallen this short.
A 14-minute hat-trick from Omar Marmoush and a late James McAtee strike saw the Cityzens edge three points clear of the Magpies in the race for Champions League qualification.
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 season - and the result may well surprise.
9. Manchester United - 12th
United’s 2024/25 season has been dismal, with Ruben Amorim calling it the “worst squad in club history.” A projected 12th-place finish in 2025/26 reflects ongoing struggles. A mid-table finish is likely unless Amorim turns things around. | Getty Images
10. Everton - 11th
Everton’s move to their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium and potential new ownership could spark a revival. Their 2024/25 season has been relegation-adjacent, but a 11th-place projection for 2025/26 suggests incremental progress. | Getty Images
11. West Ham - 10th
West Ham’s struggles under Julen Lopetegui (four wins in 17 games) and Graham Potter’s shaky tenure suggest a transitional 2025/26. A mid-table finish seems likely unless results improve significantly. | Getty Images
12. Brighton & Hove Albion - 9th
Brighton’s innovative approach under Fabian Hurzeler has kept them competitive, but their 2024/25 form (mid-table) suggests a ceiling. Their attacking style and young squad could secure a top-half finish, especially with improved injury management. | Getty Images