Premier League Record Holder James Milner Retires At 40
Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder James Milner has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a 24-season Premier League career in which he set a new all-time appearance record of 658 matches.
The 40-year-old, who joined Brighton in the summer of 2023, confirmed his decision in a post on Instagram. “After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career,” he wrote. “I’m incredibly proud of the journey I’ve been on, and grateful to every club, teammate and supporter who has been part of it.”
Milner made 46 appearances during his three seasons on the south coast. Brighton stated that he played a role both on and off the pitch during the club’s first-ever European campaign and helped the Seagulls secure qualification for European competition for only the second time in their history this season.
His professional career began at Leeds United, where he made his debut at age 16. He went on to represent Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Liverpool before joining Brighton. During his career, he won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and European honours. He also earned 61 caps for the England national team, appearing at two World Cups and two European Championships.
In a statement, Brighton described Milner as “one of the Premier League’s most decorated and respected players,” praising the consistency, versatility, and longevity that defined his career. The club added: “Everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion would like to thank James for his outstanding service to the game and to the club, and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
Milner’s record of 658 Premier League appearances surpasses the previous benchmark held by Gareth Barry, who finished his career with 653 matches. The Premier League began in the 1992-93 season, and Milner’s debut came in November 2002 for Leeds United against West Ham United.
His career includes Premier League title wins with Manchester City in 2012, 2014, and with Liverpool in 2020. He also won the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2019, the FA Cup twice, and the EFL Cup on multiple occasions.
Milner leaves the game as the most enduring figure of the Premier League era by appearance count. Brighton confirmed that his contract concludes at the end of the 2025-26 season.