Milner retires after setting record for Premier League appearances
After 658 top-flight matches spanning across 24 seasons, Milner calls time on playing career
James Milner, the Premier League’s record appearance-maker, has announced his retirement from professional football.
Milner, 40, overtook Gareth Barry at the top of the competition’s all-time appearance list when he started for Brighton & Hove Albion against Brentford in February. He ends his career with 658 Premier League appearances – five more than any other player.
“After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career,” said the former Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton midfielder.
“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.”
In a storied career, Milner won the Premier League title three times – twice with Man City and once with Liverpool. He also claimed one UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, two EFL Cups and one FIFA Club World Cup.
He made 61 England appearances in an international career that spanned seven years, playing at the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups, and the 2012 and 2016 UEFA European Championships.
Watch: Through the years of Milner’s incredible Premier League career
Announcing his retirement, Milner paid tribute to “the owners, staff, coaches, team-mates and supporters who welcomed me and helped me along the way.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country, England, 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.”
He added: “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 ever have imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided.”