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.
17. 5th: Chelsea (68 points, +18 GD)
Grok's explanation: Chelsea’s late-season form in 2024/25, Europa Conference League win and talented players like Cole Palmer suggest they’ll challenge for Europe. A slight drop in points reflects potential inconsistency under Enzo Maresca. | AFP via Getty Images
18. 4th: Newcastle (72 points, +22 GD)
Grok's explanation: Newcastle’s strong 2024/25 and solid goal difference position them as Champions League contenders. Their home form bodes well for a top-four push, as does their top-quality strike force of Alexander Isak, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon. | Getty Images
19. 3rd: Manchester City (78 points, +28 GD)
Grok's explanation: Despite a rocky 2024/25, City’s underlying numbers suggest they over-performed their expected points. With Pep Guardiola likely addressing squad issues, they should rebound but fall short of the title. | Getty Images
20. 2nd: Arsenal (80 points, +30 GD)
Grok's explanation: Arsenal’s consistent top-tier performance and potential signings like Martin Zubimendi make them strong contenders for a high finish. Their goal difference reflects defensive solidity but a slight dip in attack compared to Liverpool. | AFP via Getty Images