Leeds United's 26-word message for James Milner as retirement confirmed
The Leeds United academy graduate confirmed his retirement decision on Monday.
Leeds United have congratulated academy product James Milner on an ‘outstanding career’ following his retirement.
Milner confirmed the decision to hang up his boots on Monday morning, calling time on an incredible 24-year career that started with Leeds. A baby-faced winger at the time, his debut came off the bench in a 4-3 win at West Ham back in November 2002.
Relegation and financial issues meant Milner would spend only two seasons in the Leeds first-team - a period of which was spent on loan at Swindon Town - before joining Newcastle United in 2004. He would go on to represent Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City and Brighton.
Milner became a Premier League legend earlier this season, breaking Gareth Barry’s all-time Premier League appearance record shortly after his 40th birthday. With his Brighton contract expiring this summer, the midfielder confirmed his retirement from playing in an emotional statement.
And Leeds were among the many to respond. In a post on their official X account, they wrote: “Following his retirement from football, everyone at Leeds United congratulates James Milner on an outstanding career and wishes him all the very best for the future.”
James Milner retirement statement in full
In a statement on Instagram, Milner wrote: “After 24 seasons in the @premierleague, it feels like the right time to bring an end to my playing career. From making my debut for @leedsunited, who I supported growing up, at the age of 16 and becoming the Premier League’s youngest scorer, I could never have dreamed of the journey I’ve been on, right through to not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of @officialbhafc qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.
“To have gone on to represent @nufc, @astonvilla, @mancity, @liverpoolfc and @officialbhafc — and not forgetting a memorable month at @officialstfc — has been an incredible privilege. Every club has played a huge role in my life and career, and I want to thank everyone involved — the owners, staff, coaches, teammates and supporters who welcomed me and helped me along the way.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some unforgettable moments, from fighting for survival to winning trophies, playing in Europe, and representing my country, @england, at two European Championships and two World Cups. But more than anything, it’s the people and friendships I’ve made throughout the game that I’ll cherish forever.
“To the fans, thank you. To those who supported me every step of the way, your encouragement meant more than you’ll ever know. And to those who gave me grief along the way, thank you too — you all played your part in making the journey memorable and helping shape me as a player and person. To my family, thank you for every sacrifice, every mile travelled and every moment of encouragement. None of this would have been possible without you.
“I leave the game with immense pride, gratitude and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Football has given me far more than I could ever have imagined, and I will always be thankful for the opportunities it provided. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey.”