Qwiss It has nothing to do with Saudi narratives and new Man City projections.
Yes it does. We talk about it often, the press talks about it often, the latest Squires cartoon is all about it … the theme is that Newcastle will progress to City's level because they have petro-cash backing them. That's what's out there.
Eddie Howe's Newcastle™ are probably gonna finish 4 points ahead of where we did last season when we missed out on top four. It's a miracle! Nah.
The thing that has impressed me about Newcastle's progress, it's how swiftly they've been able to shuck off the malaise of the Ashley era. The culture change was swift. I didn't expect that, because Newcastle have epitomised the volatile, boom to bust, messianic approach of English football clubs almost since I've followed the sport.
As you point out, they are making rational decisions, and there's no Boehly factor. I wish we'd gotten out from under Wenger's shadow like that.
Qwiss You underrated them massively last summer and scoffed when we suggested they'd be in the top 4 mix. They've not only been in the mix but have it already secured. Their brand of football isn't what you think it is from only watching them against us.
True. I called it wrong. From what I recall, that earlier dialogue was with @Clrnc, who has had Newcastle's potential well calibrated for ages. But I'm not breathless Newcastle have top four "already secured" with one match to go, as their challengers disintegrate around them and they record a thumping home 0–0 draw with Leicester.
If Liverpool hadn't gassed away 15 points first half of the year, and perhaps even if Conte hadn't stuck a pin in Levy's balloon, Newcastle might not be there. And if Liverpool and Spurs had performed last season as they did this time round, we'd already have had a season in the Champions League.
It's a tricky sport to predict. Many were swearing ten Hag had United well sorted out not long ago. I reckon Arsenal has exceeded people's expectations by more and has more upside in its squad than Newcastle. With both clubs entering the Champions League, both too will have a real challenge re-qualifying for it.
