James Milner has announced his retirement, officially hanging up his boots.
At the age of 16 years and 309 days he made his Premier League debut for Leeds United.
Having turned 40 in January 2026, James Milner broke the Premier League appearance record the following month.
Spending the last three seasons at Brighton, Milner made 20 PL appearances across the 2025/26 season but has now called time as his contract with the Seagulls is set to conclude at the end of June.
James Milner has three Premier League winners medals (two with Man City and one with Liverpool), plus a Champions League winners one with the scousers.
In total, Milner played for six different clubs in the Premier League – Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton. The winger also playing 61 times for England.
Announcing his playing retirement on social media today (Monday 1 June 2026), James Milner saying: “I have 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. But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.”
Back in July 2004 an 18-year-old James Milner signed for Newcastle United. A reported £5m deal brought the teenager from Leeds United as he signed for Sir Bobby Robson.
After only four Premier League matches, the teenager saw Sir Bobby sacked and then (like the rest of us!) suffered under Graeme Souness.
Four years later, the James Milner transfer to Aston Villa was at the heart of Kevin Keegan announcing he had been totally misled and undermined by Mike Ashley, with Dennis Wise a key figure. Keegan successfully winning a case of constructive dismissal and paid a reported £2m in compensation.
After a couple of years at Villa, James Milner then experienced a very successful 13 years with Man City (five years) and Liverpool (eight years). Before then ending his career with Brighton.
A remarkable career stretching some 24 years in the top tier.
Enormous credit to James Milner for having the desire and dedication to play for so long at the top level.