Newcastle United season predicted: what happens in the cups and Premier League

Here’s how Newcastle United’s 2025/26 season is expected to pan out - and spoiler, there’s a plot twist coming.

It’s finally 2026 after a busy festive period, but already our minds are wandering to the football again. Aye, and we know we’re not alone here. We see you.

Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Burnley and Newcastle United at Turf Moor on December 30, 2025 in Burnley, England. | Getty Images

placeholder image — Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Burnley and Newcastle United at Turf Moor on December 30, 2025 in Burnley, England. | Getty Images

How will Eddie Howe solve Newcastle United’s troubles? Will Nick Woltemade start up top or will Yoane Wissa be given the chance to shine from the off again?

Well, no one knows what the head coach will do against Crystal Palace on Sunday, and even less have a clue about how the season will play out. So, we asked AI to predict it for us - and here’s how it thinks things will finish when it comes to Newcastle United’s Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup campaigns.

Newcastle United season predicted: Premier League

Here’s what AI thinks will happen for the rest of the Magpies’ faltering Premier League season.

It says: “Based on current standings, Opta supercomputer projections, betting odds, and expert analyses, here's a realistic (and somewhat optimistic) prediction for how the rest of Newcastle's season could unfold. These are informed guesses—football's unpredictable, but data points to a mid-to-upper table finish in the league with cup runs providing highlights. I'll break it down by competition.

“They'll climb to 7th. A strong second half, boosted by home form and potential January signings, sees them win 10-12 of their remaining matches. This secures Europa League qualification, edging out teams like Tottenham.

“Opta projections give them a mean finishing position of around 7th, with a 30.6% chance of a top-6 spot.

“However, injuries and fixture congestion could cap them at 7th if they exit Europe early.”

Newcastle United season predicted: Champions League

Here’s how AI thinks Newcastle will progress in the Champions League this season. It says: “With 10 points, Newcastle are likely to qualify for the playoff round.

“We think they win their two-legged tie (perhaps against a mid-tier side like RB Leipzig), reaching the round of 16. There, they put up a fight but exit to a heavyweight like Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in a 3-2 aggregate thriller. No deep run, but valuable experience and revenue.

“Opta odds give them a 32.7% chance of quarter-finals, 15.9% for semis, and just 6.8% for the final.”

Newcastle United season predicted: Carabao Cup

Here comes the plot twist - AI thinks NUFC will BEAT Manchester City over two legs and reach the final again this season. If so, that would be three finals in four years.

It says: “They reach the final at Wembley, but lose 2-1 to Arsenal. A valiant effort with a goal from Anthony Gordon, but defensive lapses cost them.

“As defending champions, they're strong contenders, but predictions lean toward a semi or final exit due to squad rotation needs.”

Newcastle United season predicted: FA Cup

Here’s how AI thinks the Magpies will get on in the FA Cup. It says: “A solid run to the quarter-finals, knocking out lower-league teams early before losing to a Premier League rival like Manchester United.

“Odds see them as strong for a final appearance, with a realistic shot at lifting the trophy if they avoid big draws early.”