Pep Guardiola predicts Newcastle United to be a top team this season

Last season, Newcastle United couldn't qualify for European football after a brilliant performance in the previous Premier League campaign. This season, the Magpies are focusing on a top four finish in the Premier League. Recently, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer predicted Eddie Howe's side to qualify for the UEFA Champions League this season. 

And now Premier League Champions Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola has also named Newcastle to be one of the most improved teams in the league. Speaking on Newcastle after Manchester City's 2-0 win over Chelsea in the first match, Guardiola said,

Pep Guardiola predicts Newcastle United to be a top team this season

"Newcastle is going to play one game a week this season. This season they will be the Newcastle of two seasons ago."

- Pep Guardiola

Although, Newcastle haven't yet made a big signing this summer, they have a great squad. One of the big reasons for Newcastle's inconsistency was the defence conceding a lot of goals. If the Magpies bring in a new centre back and another forward, they can aim for a top four Premier League finish this season. 

Further, Eddie Howe's side showed their quality against Southampton as they started their new season with a 1-0 win despite being down to ten players inside the first half. Also, with less fixtures as compared to last season, Newcastle can also try to win the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup to put an end to their long trophy wait. Recently, new captain Bruno Guimaraes also revealed his dream of becoming a Newcastle legend by winning a trophy at the club. 

Meanwhile, Newcastle United will face Bournemouth in their second Premier League match. Also, after that the Magpies start their FA Cup campaign against Nottingham Forest.