2026-06-01 10:58:44
James Milner has announced his retirement from football at the age of 40.
The versatile midfielder has called time on his career after 24 seasons in the Premier League that saw him make a record 658 appearances in the top-flight of English football.
Milner – who has spent the past three seasons at Brighton – started his career at boyhood club Leeds, where he made his debut at the age of 16.
He then went on to represent Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool.
Milner said in a social media post: “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.
“To have gone on to represent Newcastle, Aston Villa, Man City, Liverpool and Brighton and not forgetting a memorable month at Swindon, has been a huge privilege
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country. But more than anything, it is the people and friendships I’ve made throughout my time in the game I will cherish forever.
“To my family, thank you for every sacrifice, every mile travelled and every moment of encouragement. None of this would have been possible without you.
“I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Football has given me far more than I could have ever imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided.”
Milner’s most successful spells came at City – where he won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and League Cup – and Liverpool – where he lifted another Premier League crown, along with the FA Cup, League Cup and the 2019 Champions League.
At international level, Milner won 61 caps for England and represented the Three Lions at two World Cups and two European Championships.
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