LONDON: James Milner, the former England international who became the Premier League’s all-time appearance leader, announced his retirement Monday after a 24-year career in England’s top flight.
The versatile 40-year-old was out of contract following three seasons with Brighton. He finishes with 61 England caps, three Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.
“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 in a statement posted on social media. “But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.”
Milner broke the Premier League appearances record in February, capping a career that began with Leeds United. He made his debut for his boyhood club at 16 and became the league’s youngest scorer at the time.
“From making my debut for Leeds United … 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 added.
After two years in Leeds’ first team, Milner was sold to Newcastle in 2004 following Leeds’ relegation to the Championship. He joined Aston Villa in 2008 and Manchester City in 2010, helping City win its first two Premier League titles in 2012 and 2014.
Milner moved to Liverpool in 2015, spending eight seasons at Anfield with 26 goals in 332 appearances. He helped the Reds win their first league title since 1990 in 2020 and also lifted the FA Cup and League Cup with both Liverpool and City.
Milner made his England debut while with Villa in 2009. He played at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and two European Championships.
“I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life,” Milner said. “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.”
