As the 2024/25 Premier League season draws closer, legendary striker Alan Shearer has revealed his predictions for how the table will shape up by the end of the campaign. The former Newcastle United star has tipped his old club to make a triumphant return to European football, forecasting a top-four finish for the Magpies. Shearer believes Newcastle’s lack of European competition this season could be a crucial factor in their favor, helping them secure a spot among the league’s elite.
Top Four Predictions
Shearer’s optimism for Newcastle is grounded in the fact that the club won’t have to juggle the demands of European football, which severely hampered their performance last season. He sees this as a major advantage in the race for the top four, predicting that Newcastle could finish in fourth place.
“I think Liverpool will finish in the top four again,” Shearer said. “I’d be hopeful of Newcastle because they haven’t got European football to contend with this year, so in terms of injuries and squad availability, that should help them. If they can get a free run, then I’d be hopeful that Newcastle could finish fourth.”
Shearer also pointed to Manchester United as strong contenders for a top-four finish, noting their impressive performance in the Community Shield, even though Manchester City had several key players missing due to injuries and recovery from the Euros. “Man United looked really good and had the better chances,” Shearer remarked, indicating that the Red Devils could pose a serious challenge in the race for the Champions League spots.
He also highlighted Tottenham Hotspur as a potential surprise package. Shearer believes that the addition of Dominic Solanke to their squad could provide Spurs with the firepower needed to challenge for a top-four spot, despite the club’s recent struggles. “Solanke is a good signing for them. They paid a lot of money for him, but he’s what they needed, and he will help them kick on a little bit more as well.”
European Places
Beyond the top four, Shearer anticipates a fiercely competitive battle for the remaining European places. He has expressed confidence that teams like Liverpool and Spurs will be vying for these positions, with Liverpool expected to bounce back after a mixed season last year.
Relegation Battle
When it comes to the bottom of the table, Shearer doesn’t hold back in his assessment. He believes that the three newly-promoted sides—Southampton, Ipswich Town, and Leicester City—are likely to struggle to survive in the top flight.
“It’s not rocket science to know that the three promoted teams will find it really difficult,” Shearer commented. “Leicester might even have a punishment to face at some stage, and if they do, then it’ll be very difficult for them to survive in the Premier League.”
Shearer also pointed out that established Premier League clubs like Everton, Bournemouth, and Nottingham Forest could find themselves in precarious positions. Wolves, who have had to part with key players like Max Kilman and Pedro Neto, might also face a tough season.
Final Thoughts
Alan Shearer’s predictions offer a fascinating glimpse into what could be a thrilling Premier League season. With Newcastle United poised for a return to the top four and a fierce battle brewing at both ends of the table, the 2024/25 campaign promises to be full of drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Whether Shearer’s predictions come true remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: football fans are in for an exciting ride.