James Milner has once again committed his future to Brighton & Hove Albion by signing a one-year contract extension, a deal that will see the veteran midfielder continue playing in the Premier League well into his 40s. The 39-year-old, who turns 40 on January 4, 2026, is set to join an exclusive club of outfield players to have featured in the English top flight at such an advanced age.
Milner’s contract was due to expire at the end of June 2025, but after months of discussions and recovery from injury, the former England international has agreed to stay at the Amex Stadium through the 2025-26 season. This extension not only highlights his enduring value on the pitch but also his vital role off it, providing leadership and experience to Brighton’s younger talents.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler expressed his delight at securing Milner’s services for another season, emphasizing the midfielder’s invaluable presence within the squad. “I’m really pleased we will have James with us again this season,” Hurzeler said. “Last season he wasn’t able to help the team on the pitch as much as he would have liked, but around the squad his experience is invaluable, especially for the younger players. He’s a great guy to have in our environment, who is always there for me and the team. I’m looking forward to working with him again.”
Milner’s influence extends beyond his on-field contributions. Despite being limited to just four league appearances last season due to a thigh injury that sidelined him from August 2024 until May 2025, his presence in the dressing room and mentorship of emerging players has been pivotal. Hurzeler’s commitment to keeping Milner reflects the importance of having seasoned professionals guiding younger teammates through the challenges of Premier League football.
Milner himself expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming campaign, focusing on the potential of Brighton’s squad and the progress of new signings. Speaking after the season finale against Tottenham Hotspur, where he made a brief substitute appearance in the 93rd minute to mark his 638th Premier League game, Milner noted, “You look at the season we have. We have good players and good results but there have been times when we've dropped points and shouldn't have done. You need a bit of experience.”
He continued, “You look at the players who have come in, the likes of Mats Wieffer and Gruda, difficult coming to a new team and country but look how good they've been in the last few weeks. It takes time. I'm excited for next year for sure. Hopefully I can be a part of it. You look at the potential that's there with another year under the belt.” Milner also highlighted the development of Carlos Baleba, another young talent gaining valuable experience, and the importance of senior players like himself in nurturing the squad’s growth.
Milner’s career is nothing short of remarkable. He made his senior debut in 2002 for Leeds United at the age of 16 and went on to have successful spells with Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Liverpool before joining Brighton in 2023 on a free transfer. Throughout his career, he has amassed 638 Premier League appearances, placing him second on the all-time list behind Gareth Barry’s record of 653 games. To put this into perspective, Milner needs just 15 more appearances to equal Barry’s record, a feat that seems attainable given his new contract.
In addition to his longevity, Milner boasts an impressive trophy cabinet. He has won three Premier League titles—two with Manchester City and one with Liverpool—and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy with Liverpool in 2019. His international career includes 61 caps for England, with appearances in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.
Milner is also on the cusp of making Premier League history as one of the oldest outfield players to feature in the competition. The current record holder is Teddy Sheringham, who played for West Ham United until he was 40 years and 272 days old. Milner will be 40 years and 140 days old on the final day of the 2025-26 season, potentially making him the third oldest outfield player in Premier League history behind Sheringham and Ryan Giggs.
Brighton’s 2024-25 season saw them finish eighth in the Premier League, a solid position under Hurzeler’s first year in charge. Milner’s brief return in the final match, a 4-1 victory at Tottenham Hotspur, was a symbolic moment, signaling his readiness to contribute again after a long injury layoff. That appearance marked his 638th Premier League game, underscoring his durability and commitment over more than two decades at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Milner’s extension provides Brighton with not only a seasoned competitor on the pitch but also a mentor who can help shape the club’s future stars. His experience across multiple top clubs and international tournaments brings a wealth of knowledge to the Seagulls, especially valuable as the team integrates new talents adapting to the rigors of Premier League football.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Milner to see if he can surpass Gareth Barry’s appearance record and continue defying age in one of the world’s most demanding leagues. His journey from a teenage debutant at Leeds to one of the Premier League’s most respected veterans is a testament to his professionalism, fitness, and passion for the game.
With his new contract secured, James Milner is set to write another chapter in his extraordinary career, inspiring teammates and fans alike as he aims to make history with Brighton & Hove Albion.
