Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has written off his former club's chances of finishing in the Premier League top six next season, warning of a 'rocky' 18-month period ahead as the club undergoes a significant squad rebuild.
Shearer's Prediction for Newcastle's Season
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer expressed his concerns about the club's direction after a summer that has seen key players Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali depart, with captain Bruno Guimaraes also linked with a move away. The Magpies have brought in youngsters Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure, and Ewen Jaouen, but Shearer believes the first team still requires substantial work before the season opener against Liverpool on August 23.
"I don't expect us to be challenging the top six next season," Shearer said. "I think because of the situation we're in, I think Newcastle, we might have to accept that we might have a couple of rocky years or 18 months that is back to building and back to getting some sort of stability."
Concerns Over Bruno Guimaraes' Future
The future of Bruno Guimaraes remains a major talking point, with Arsenal reportedly keen to sign the Brazilian for a cut-price fee of around £50 million. Shearer fears that losing Guimaraes would be a crippling blow for manager Eddie Howe and the team.
"I don't think Bruno has personally come out and said he wants to leave Newcastle," Shearer added. "I think his agent sort of has. I guess there are people speaking on behalf of him, I think. That's what it sounds like."
Shearer highlighted the disparity in potential transfer fees, noting that Tonali left for £100 million, while Guimaraes, at 28 or 29, might command only half that amount. "It would be such a bad look if Newcastle were to sell him," he said.
Squad Rebuild and Transfer Frustrations
Newcastle have also missed out on Johan Manzambi, who rejected a move to St James' Park in favor of Aston Villa. Shearer described the situation as frustrating for fans, with the club losing four top players in two years if Guimaraes also departs.
"I just think from a Newcastle fan point of view that you've lost your best player last year in terms of Isak for whatever reason. You've lost Anthony Gordon for whatever reason. You've lost Tonali for whatever reason. And clearly if Bruno was to go, then that would be four of your top players gone within two years," Shearer said.
Despite the challenges, Shearer expressed confidence in Eddie Howe's ability to lead the team through the transition. "I think what Eddie Howe has done at Newcastle, what he's done for us, he's without doubt the man to take Newcastle into the season regardless of what is going on," he concluded.
