The 2024-25 season is well and truly in the rear-view mirror as Newcastle United begin preparations for a Premier League and Champions League. With the Magpies embarking on a European adventure and bitter rivals Sunderland a top-flight club again, one could be forgiven for thinking they had woken up in 2002.
Leeds United are also back in the big time to give the fixture list a more localised feel. Last year, Newcastle fans travelled further than any set of supporters in Premier League history, with seven London clubs and three on the south coast.
That did now, however, stop them from roaring their side on all the way to Champions League qualification. Newcastle will be looking to achieve the same feat after, hopefully, a summer of incomings at St James’ Park.
It is too early to predict what will happen next season given the transfer window has barely been open. So for a bit of fun, we let AI do the work for us. Here is what Grok expects the Premier League table to look like next May.
1. Grok predicts 2025/26 Premier League table
We asked AI to predict the 2025/26 Premier League standings, here's what it said – from 20th to 1st. | Getty Images
2. 20th: Sunderland (30 points, -30 GD)
Grok's explanation: Sunderland face a steep challenge. Their young squad lacks Premier League experience. Posts on X highlight concerns about their depth and defensive naivety. A low points total and poor goal difference reflect their struggle to compete, making them prime relegation candidates. | Getty Images
3. 19th: Burnley (34 points, -25 GD)
Grok's explanation: Burnley, promoted as 2024/25 Championship winners, return under Scott Parker. Their 2023/24 relegation (24 points, -37 GD) highlighted defensive frailties, and despite a strong Championship campaign, adapting to the Premier League’s intensity will be tough. Limited squad investment and reliance on players like Josh Brownhill lead to relegation. | Getty Images
4. 18th: Wolves (38 points, -20 GD)
Grok's explanation: Wolves’ 16th-place finish in 2024/25 showed vulnerability, with Gary O’Neil struggling for consistency. Losing Pedro Neto to Chelsea and potential departures of players like Matheus Cunha could weaken them further. Their low points and poor goal difference suggest a relegation battle. | Getty Images