James Milner has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career spanning more than 20 years.
The former Liverpool vice-captain spent eight seasons at Anfield after joining on a free transfer in 2015, making 332 appearances in all competitions, scoring 26 goals and registering 45 assists.
A model professional throughout his career, Milner won the Premier League, Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his time with the Reds.
Announcing his decision on social media, the 40-year-old said: “After 24 seasons in the Premier League, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career.
“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 & Hove Albion 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.”
Milner was appointed Liverpool vice-captain shortly after his arrival from Manchester City, working under Brendan Rodgers and later Jurgen Klopp, both of whom leaned heavily on his leadership and versatility.
He became an important part of Klopp’s evolving side, notably filling in at left-back during the 2016–17 season as Liverpool secured a return to the Champions League with a fourth-place finish.
Milner played a key role in the club’s rise in the following years, featuring in the run to the 2018 Champions League final and going one better the following season as Liverpool beat Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid to win their sixth European Cup.
He also helped secure the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, and made 22 league appearances in the 2019–20 campaign as Liverpool ended their 30-year wait for a top-flight title.
He later lifted a domestic cup double during the 2021–22 season as Liverpool pushed for an unprecedented quadruple. Milner received a warm farewell at Anfield in May 2023 before returning with Brighton the following December.
In his final seasons, he made Premier League history by surpassing Gareth Barry’s appearance record of 653 matches, finishing as the league’s all-time leader in appearances.
James Milner continued: “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. 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.”
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