Newcastle United lost 18 matches in the 2017/18 Premier League campaign. If the Magpies want to play in Europe, they cannot lose more than ten matches.
Newcastle United were impressive in the second half of the season, but they were also fortunate to finish in tenth place. With an overall performance record of 12-8-18, the Magpies have quite a bit of work to do this summer to reduce the number of losses. Newcastle faced a lot of adversity during this campaign as a newly-promoted club, but next season will require more maturity and composure.
Rafa Benitez has said time and time again that his aim is to develop the club and elevate their status by playing in Europe and winning titles. With the current roster, Newcastle is an average mid-table side, but the Magpies are not far off from European contention.
Newcastle must improve in many areas to achieve their objective of playing in European competitions. The biggest focal point, however, should be reducing the number of losses next season.
If Newcastle want to have a competitive chance at qualifying for a tournament, they must reduce their number of losses to nine or ten.
From 18 to ten
Newcastle were not expected to go undefeated during the 2017/18 campaign, but losing 18 matches was too much. The Magpies dropped points against some superior opposition, but the true issue is the pointless losses to inferior clubs. Over the course of the season, Newcastle dropped points to the following opponents:
- West Brom
- Swansea City
- Watford
- Bournemouth
- Southampton
In order for the Magpies to reduce their loss tally by half, they must maintain composure. Too many opponents scored goals late in the second half. Newcastle’s defensive unit is solid and enjoyed consistency late in the season. It is Newcastle’s attack that is to blame here.
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The Magpies must learn to maintain more possession on the ball and threaten their opponents more frequently. This mitigates the number of counter-attacks and dangerous chances. If Newcastle can maintain their form and obtain more possession of the ball, they will have a better chance at reducing their number of losses.
Europa League
Chelsea and Arsenal finished the campaign fifth and sixth in the table, and are on their way to playing in the UEFA Europa League. Chelsea had ten losses and Arsenal had 13. This was an odd Premier League campaign, and next season will surely be more competitive among the top eight.
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It is for this reason that Newcastle should aim to keep their loss tally to nine or ten. Newcastle truly are only two or three quality players away from contending for Europe. The key for the squad next season will be to consolidate confidence, maturity and composure for 90 minutes in each match.