Stefan Borson: Newcastle have ‘Huge’ Champions League advantage after twist

Newcastle United stand on the brink of a triumphant return to Europe’s elite competition, with their Premier League position and remaining fixtures suggesting Champions League football could be heading back to St James’ Park next season.

Currently sitting sixth in the table with 47 points from 28 matches, the Magpies hold a game in hand over most rivals and trail fifth-placed Manchester City by just a single point.

With England expected to secure five Champions League spots through UEFA’s coefficient rankings, Eddie Howe’s side find themselves in prime position to capitalize.

The Tyneside club’s resurgence comes after last season’s disappointing seventh-place finish left them without European football this campaign.

However, their Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool has already guaranteed Conference League participation, while their league form hints at even greater continental ambitions.

Financial expert Stefan Borson believes Newcastle’s remaining schedule provides a “huge advantage,” particularly with Manchester United and Aston Villa facing European quarter-finals just days before their Premier League clashes with the Magpies.

Newcastle’s final ten matches present a favorable blend of opportunities, including six home games and four fixtures against sides with little left to play for.

Their run-in features encounters with Brentford, Leicester, Crystal Palace, and Ipswich – teams either battling relegation or comfortably mid-table. Crucially, their games against Arsenal and Everton come at a stage when both opponents’ seasons may already be decided, potentially reducing competitive intensity.

The financial implications of Champions League qualification could transform Newcastle’s summer plans.

Borson estimates participation could deliver a £100 million windfall, funds that would significantly boost their transfer budget. This potential financial injection comes as the club considers moves for players like Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, with reports suggesting a £40 million bid could secure the Nigerian striker.

The 24-year-old has been in scintillating form in Germany, contributing 31 goals and 11 assists in 56 appearances since joining the Bundesliga champions.

As the season reaches its climax, Newcastle’s destiny remains firmly in their hands. Their game in hand represents a golden opportunity to leapfrog rivals, while their cup final victory has already ended the club’s long trophy drought.

With Howe’s squad showing resilience and tactical flexibility throughout the campaign, the prospect of Champions League nights returning to Tyneside appears increasingly likely.

The coming weeks will test their nerve, but the foundations for a memorable season finale have been carefully laid.