James Milner

James Philip Milner is an English former professional footballer known for his versatility and long Premier League career.

James Philip Milner is an English former professional footballer known for his versatility and long Premier League career. He played for Leeds United, Swindon Town, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion, and retired on 1 June 2026. He is a Premier League appearance record holder and won major domestic and European honours with Manchester City and Liverpool.

Early life and youth career

Milner was born in Leeds, England, and came through the Leeds United system. He made his senior debut for Leeds in 2002 as a teenager.

Club career

Milner’s career included spells at Leeds United, Swindon Town, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion. He became one of the most experienced players in Premier League history. He began his senior career with Leeds United and made his Premier League debut at age 16. He played more than 100 matches for Newcastle United and won the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2006. He won the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 2010. With Manchester City he won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and FA Community Shield. He joined Liverpool in 2015 on a free transfer and won the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, FA Cup and EFL Cup. He finished his career at Brighton & Hove Albion and retired on 1 June 2026.

Honours and achievements

He won league titles and cup competitions with Manchester City and Liverpool, including the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool in 2019. He also received the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 2010. He is known for playing in multiple roles, including central midfield, full-back and winger.

Retirement

Milner ended his playing career after a three-year spell at Brighton & Hove Albion. His retirement was announced on 1 June 2026.