James Milner has announced his retirement from football.
The 40-year-old shared the news in a lengthy post on social media, where he paid tribute to all the clubs he represented during a career in which he broke the Premier League appearance record.
James Milner’s retirement statement in full
“After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career,” Milner wrote.
“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 @officialbhafc qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.
“To have gone on to represent Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Brighton — and not forgetting a memorable month at Swindon Town — has been an incredible privilege.
“Every club has played a huge role in my life and career, and I want to thank everyone involved — the owners, staff, coaches, teammates 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.
“To the fans, thank you. To those who supported me every step of the way, your encouragement meant more than you’ll ever know.
“And to those who gave me grief along the way, thank you too — you all played your part in making the journey memorable and helping shape me as a player and person.
“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.
James Milner’s Premier League appearances broken down
Leeds United (2002-2004): 48
Newcastle United (2004-2009): 94
Aston Villa (2005/06, 2008-2011): 100
Manchester City (2010-2015): 147
Liverpool (2015-2023): 230
Brighton (2023-2026): 39
“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.”
Rewriting the history books
Milner walks away from the game with 658 Premier League appearances to his name, five clear of Gareth Barry who is second on the list.
He made his top flight debut in November 2002 with Leeds during a 4-3 win over West Ham United.
Milner’s final match as a professional came on the final day of the 2025/26 season, where he started for Brighton in a 3-0 loss to Manchester United.
The majority of Milner’s record-breaking haul were accumulated during his eight-year spell with Liverpool.
Joining from City in June 2015, Milner represented the Reds 230 times in the Premier League.
Milner also won the Premier League, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the Club World Cup throughout his stint at Anfield.
The 40-year-old also scooped up a number of trophies while at City, including two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the League Cup.
Jeff Stelling and Dean Saunders react to Milner’s retirement
Learning of Milner’s retirement on the Sports Breakfast, co-host Dean Saunders shared an anecdote which spoke to the veteran’s remarkable professionalism and drive to better himself.
“I was fortunate enough to be his coach at Newcastle,” Saunders said.
“And I can only say, every day I used to stay out with the players practising shooting.
“Every day, James Milner was there.”
Saunders added: “He’s a great lad. He’s a credit to his parents. He’s a normal, nice lad.”
Co-host Jeff Stelling also heaped praise on Milner’s attitude and believed all could learn a thing or two from how he conducted himself.
“At clubs like Brighton, a proper example to everybody at the club,” Stelling said.
“He’s the guy who sets the standards that everybody else would aspire to. James, it’s been a brilliant career.”