Former England international James Milner has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 24-year career that saw him become the Premier League’s all-time appearance record holder.
The versatile midfielder, who recently turned 40, leaves the game after making 658 Premier League appearances for six clubs, including Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion.
Milner spent the last three seasons at Brighton and was part of the squad that secured European qualification for only the second time in the club’s history. His final Premier League appearance came during Brighton’s last game of the 2025-26 season.
Announcing his retirement in a statement posted on social media, Milner reflected on a career filled with triumphs, challenges and unforgettable memories.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country at two European Championships and two World Cups,” Milner said.
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“But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.”
Milner began his professional career with boyhood club Leeds United, making his Premier League debut in November 2002 at the age of 16. A month later, he became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history at the time.
Following Leeds United’s relegation in 2004, he joined Newcastle United before moving to Aston Villa in 2008, where he established himself as one of the league’s most consistent midfielders.
His career reached new heights after signing for Manchester City in 2010. During his five years at the club, Milner helped City win Premier League titles in 2012 and 2014, playing a key role in the club’s rise to domestic dominance.
In 2015, he moved to Liverpool, where he enjoyed one of the most successful spells of his career. Over eight seasons at Anfield, he made 332 appearances, won the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and helped Liverpool secure their first league title in 30 years when they won the Premier League in 2020.
Milner also enjoyed an accomplished international career, earning 61 caps for England after making his debut in 2009. He represented the Three Lions at two FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships before retiring from international football.
Reflecting on his long journey in the game, Milner highlighted his pride at overcoming injury setbacks late in his career and helping Brighton achieve another historic milestone.
“From making my debut for Leeds United, who I supported growing up, at the age of 16 and becoming the Premier League’s youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I’ve been on, right through to not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40,” he said.
Milner retires as a three-time Premier League champion, UEFA Champions League winner, FA Cup winner, League Cup winner and one of the most respected professionals of his generation.
“I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life,” he added.
“Football has given me far more than I could ever have imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided.
“Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey.”
