James Milner confirmed his retirement on Thursday, ending a 24-year spell in the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion. The former England midfielder leaves the top flight after 332 appearances and 26 goals for the Seagulls, capping a career that began at Leeds United in 2002.

Milner broke through at Leeds, then moved to Newcastle after the club’s 2004 relegation. He signed for Aston Villa in 2008, and two years later joined Manchester City, where he helped secure the club’s first two Premier League crowns in 2012 and 2014. A 2015 switch to Liverpool added a 2020 title, an FA Cup and a League Cup to his résumé.

Milner’s longevity gave managers a rare blend of work‑rate and tactical intelligence, allowing him to feature regularly into his late thirties. His 332 appearances place him among the most‑used English players in league history, while his professionalism set a benchmark for younger squad members. He departs having earned the respect of teammates, fans and rivals alike.

Brighton manager Roberto De Zorzi thanked Milner for his mentorship, noting the veteran’s influence on the club’s recent climb up the table. With Milner’s seat now vacant, the Seagulls will look to younger midfield options to maintain momentum in the second half of the season.