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.
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