James Milner Launches 24th Premier League Season with Tribute and Record Chase

Brighton, England — James Milner begins his 24th season in the Premier League, with the opening match against Fulham set for Saturday. The 39-year-old midfielder hopes to break the all-time record for appearances, currently held by Gareth Barry.

Milner’s journey back to this season started with an early wake-up call during a golf trip in America. Just eight days after the previous season ended, he and fitness coach Adrian Lamb kicked off their preparation with a gym session at 5:15 a.m. on June 2. “The 2025-26 season starts here,” said Lamb, marking day one of a rigorous 10-week training period.

Reflecting on his career, Milner recalls breaking through at Leeds United as a 16-year-old, where he quickly became the Premier League’s youngest goalscorer. Now, he stands just 15 matches away from surpassing Barry’s record of 653 appearances.

Milner’s fitness journey reflects the changes in training over the years. “You didn’t get the balls out for the first two weeks,” he said, comparing past pre-seasons to today’s ball-oriented sessions that prioritize fitness on the pitch. Despite concerns about his age, he maintains that he can still contribute significantly on the field.

This season carries special significance for Milner, who will wear number 20 in honor of his late teammate, Diogo Jota. “I loved the guy, absolutely loved him,” Milner shared, recalling their time together at Liverpool.

Milner emphasizes the importance of passion and hard work for young players entering the league, acknowledging the pressures they face from social media and public scrutiny. He aims to contribute to Brighton's success, envisioning possibilities for European competition this season.

As he prepares for the upcoming season, Milner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue playing. “If this is my last season, I want it to be more positive than last year,” he said, focusing on team success over individual accolades.

With the first match approaching, Milner remains determined, excited to see where this new chapter in his storied career leads.