James Milner has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on one of the longest and most distinguished careers in Premier League history.
The former England international confirmed his decision in a statement on social media after completing his third season with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Milner retires at the age of 40 after spending 24 seasons in the Premier League and establishing himself as one of English football’s most respected figures.
His final appearance came during Brighton’s last game of the 2025-26 season, taking his tally to a record 654 Premier League matches.
The midfielder surpassed Gareth Barry earlier this year to become the division’s all-time appearance holder.
Milner’s career began with Leeds United, the club he supported as a boy.
He made his Premier League debut in November 2002 at just 16 years of age and quickly established himself as one of the country’s brightest young talents.
A month later, he became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history, a record that stood for years before eventually being surpassed.
Over the next two decades, Milner represented Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton, building a reputation for consistency, professionalism and versatility.
His trophy collection reflects the success he enjoyed throughout his career.
Milner won three Premier League titles, lifting the trophy twice with Manchester City before adding another during his time at Liverpool.
He also played a key role in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph in 2019 and collected several other domestic honours along the way.
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At international level, Milner earned 61 caps for England after making his senior debut in 2009.
He represented his country at two World Cups and two European Championships before ending his international career in 2016.
In his retirement statement, Milner reflected on a journey that exceeded anything he imagined as a teenager breaking into the Leeds first team.
“After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career,” he said.
He added that representing the clubs he played for, competing in Europe and wearing the England shirt had been an “incredible privilege”.
Milner also paid tribute to the owners, coaches, team-mates, staff and supporters who played a part in his career.
His final campaign was another demonstration of his longevity.
Despite injury problems in recent years, Milner featured 22 times as Brighton secured European qualification for only the second time in their history.
Few players have matched his durability, professionalism and consistency across such a long period.
As he steps away from the game, Milner leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the Premier League’s greatest servants and most dependable performers.