You’d think after two decades of top-flight football and a list of trophies that most players could only dream of, James Milner might be ready to hang up his boots.
But the 39-year-old midfielder has other plans.
Milner has just signed a one-year contract extension with Brighton & Hove Albion—proving once again that age really is just a number when it comes to his relentless drive.
A New Chapter with Brighton
The club announced the news on Friday, confirming Milner will be sticking around for a third season at the Amex.
And while the extension alone is impressive, what’s really driving the veteran midfielder is a long-standing record.
Milner is now just 15 appearances away from overtaking Gareth Barry’s all-time Premier League record of 653 matches.
A Return from the Brink
This new deal feels especially meaningful after what Milner’s been through.
Back in December, he underwent knee surgery that came with unexpected nerve damage complications.
It wasn’t just a question of whether he’d return to the pitch—it was whether he’d be able to walk normally again.
“I couldn’t lift my foot or my toes,” Milner admitted earlier.
“I didn’t know if I’d walk properly, let alone play football again.”
Doctors never directly told him to retire, but the odds weren’t in his favor—especially at his age. That doubt became his biggest motivator.
He focused first on recovery, getting the knee strong again, and step by step, he clawed his way back.
A Brief But Powerful Comeback
It wasn’t until the final day of the 2024–25 Premier League season that Milner finally made his return—coming on as a late substitute in Brighton’s win over Tottenham.
Though it was just a few minutes on the pitch, it marked his 881st senior club appearance and a personal victory after months of uncertainty.
Milner’s Reaction
After signing the extension, Milner said he was “delighted” to keep going with Brighton.
He’s looking forward to pre-season, eager to rejoin manager Fabian Hürzeler and what he described as a “talented group of players.”
That hunger to compete, even as he approaches 40, is what sets him apart.
He’s not chasing a farewell tour—he’s genuinely excited to contribute.
From Teenage Prodigy to Trophy-Winner
Milner’s journey began when he made his Premier League debut for Leeds United at just 16 years old.
Over the years, he’s picked up nearly every major domestic honour—winning the Premier League with both Liverpool and Manchester City, lifting the FA Cup and League Cup with both clubs, and of course, hoisting the Champions League trophy with Liverpool in 2019.
He’s also earned 61 caps for England, though his last appearance for the national team came in 2016.
Brighton’s Season and What Comes Next
Under new boss Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton finished eighth in the league this past season, narrowly missing out on European qualification.
But with Milner back in the mix and his wealth of experience in the locker room, they’ll be hoping to push even higher next season.
Chasing One More Record
If Milner stays fit and gets enough game time, he’s poised to surpass Gareth Barry’s Premier League appearance record.
That alone would be a fitting reward for a player who’s always put in the hard yards—on the training ground and during matches.
Still Hungry, Still Humble
Despite his age, the setbacks, and everything he’s already achieved, Milner remains grounded.
His focus isn’t on records or retirement tributes—it’s on doing the job.
That work ethic is part of why he’s so respected in every dressing room he’s been in.
And now, as Brighton’s veteran leader, James Milner is ready to prove once again that he’s not done yet.