Former England midfielder James Milner has announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to a remarkable playing career that spanned 24 Premier League seasons.

The 40-year-old leaves the game after setting a new record for the most Premier League appearances, finishing with 658 matches. Milner, who spent the last three years with Brighton & Hove Albion, surpassed the previous record during a match against Brentford in February.

“After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career,” Milner said in a statement on Instagram.

“From making my debut for Leeds, 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.”

“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.

“But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.

“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.”

Milner began his professional career with Leeds United, making 48 appearances and becoming the Premier League’s youngest goalscorer at the time. He later played for Newcastle United and Aston Villa before enjoying trophy-laden spells with Manchester City and Liverpool.

At Manchester City, Milner made 147 appearances and won two Premier League titles. He then spent eight seasons at Liverpool, playing 230 matches and helping the club secure another league crown.

He joined Brighton in 2023 and made 39 appearances for the club, although injuries limited him to four outings during the 2024-25 campaign.

Milner scored 56 Premier League goals and provided 90 assists during his career, placing him among the competition’s most productive midfielders. His goals came across spells with Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton.

He retires as one of only four players to surpass 600 Premier League appearances. The previous record holder, Gareth Barry, finished on 653 appearances, while Ryan Giggs and Frank Lampard also exceeded the 600-match mark.

Milner also ranks among the league’s most enduring performers, having accumulated 40,876 minutes on the pitch during his Premier League career.

His retirement closes the chapter on one of English football’s longest and most consistent careers, spanning more than two decades at the highest level. (Arise News)

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