James Milner has signed a one-year contract extension with Brighton & Hove Albion, the club confirmed on Friday. The 39-year-old veteran midfielder is edging closer to making Premier League history, as he eyes Gareth Barry’s all-time appearance record.
Milner, who made his Premier League debut at age 16 with Leeds United back in 2002, was limited to just four league appearances during the 2024/25 season due to an injury in August. Despite the setback, his career tally stands at 638 Premier League games—just 15 short of Barry’s record of 653.
Head coach Fabian Hürzeler expressed his delight at Milner’s extension, highlighting the midfielder’s value beyond match days.
Brighton & Hove Albion on X (formerly Twitter): “We’re delighted to announce that James has agreed a one-year contract extension with Albion! 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/DocFkxkjpN / X”
We’re delighted to announce that James has agreed a one-year contract extension with Albion! 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/DocFkxkjpN
“I’m really pleased we will have James with us again this season,” Hürzeler 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.”
Brighton finished eighth in the Premier League last season, narrowly missing out on European qualification. With Milner’s leadership and experience, the Seagulls will be hoping to push further up the table in the 2025/26 campaign.
