Alexander Isak tasked to take Newcastle to Champions League.
Image credit: Fabrizio Romano
As we head into Gameweek 36, an exciting clash awaits between Newcastle United and Chelsea at St. James’ Park on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
This match is pivotal for both teams, as they battle for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
Newcastle United, currently in 4th place with 63 points, are neck-and-neck with Chelsea, who share the same point tally.
A victory for either team could significantly impact their position in the Premier League standings, with the Magpies hoping to create a gap over Chelsea and the other competitors for the Champions League spots.
With Arsenal in second place at 67 points and Manchester City just one point behind Newcastle, the Magpies still have a chance to challenge for higher positions.
However, they also face the risk of slipping out of the top five, as Chelsea (63 points), Nottingham Forest (61 points), and Aston Villa (60 points) are closely following them.
Newcastle has shown impressive form, especially at home, where they’ve won five consecutive matches, including a strong 4-1 victory over Manchester United and a 5-0 triumph over Crystal Palace.
Despite two disappointing results in recent weeks, Newcastle’s overall performance at St. James’ Park, where they have won seven of their last 11 encounters with Chelsea, makes them favorites for this match.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have experienced a resurgence under manager Enzo Maresca.
The Blues are on a three-match winning streak, marking their best run of victories this season, including notable wins against Leicester City, Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur.
However, their away form has been inconsistent, and the upcoming clash will test whether they can sustain their recent momentum.
Team News
Newcastle United will be without club captain Jamaal Lascelles (knee injury) and Lewis Hall (foot injury) for the remainder of the season.
Additionally, Joelinton’s availability is uncertain, and Matt Targett is likely to miss out with a hamstring issue.
The Geordies may also need to rely on Sven Botman to partner Dan Burn in defense if Fabian Schar remains unavailable.
Alexander Isak, who has been crucial to Newcastle’s attack with 23 goals this season, will be looking to extend his excellent record against Chelsea.
Chelsea also has some injury concerns, with Wesley Fofana (hamstring) ruled out for the season.
They could also be without Aaron Anselmino due to a similar injury.
Moises Caicedo is expected to continue in his full-back role, with the freedom to join the midfield in possession.
Chelsea’s top scorer, Cole Palmer, is in fine form, having scored a key goal in their recent 3-1 win over Liverpool.
Prediction: Chelsea to Win 2-1
Despite Newcastle’s solid home form, Chelsea’s recent resurgence, particularly their momentum from a three-match winning streak, puts them in a favorable position.
With key players like Cole Palmer and Moisés Caicedo in fine form, Chelsea are poised to edge out Newcastle in a tightly contested match.
Possible Lineups:
Newcastle United:
Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Guimaraes, Tonali, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Chelsea:
Sanchez; Caicedo, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Lavia, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Madueke; Jackson
