Alious
Brighton Boss Drops Strongest Hint Yet on James Milner’s Future as Veteran Nears Contract Expiry
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has given his clearest indication yet that he wants James Milner to remain part of the club beyond this summer — even as the veteran midfielder’s current deal nears its end.
Milner, now 39, has endured a frustrating season on the sidelines after a significant hamstring injury sustained during a 1-1 draw against Arsenal last August. Though he started Brighton’s first three Premier League matches of the campaign, he hasn’t featured since. Despite that, Hürzeler has praised the former England international’s continued impact behind the scenes, hailing his leadership and professionalism.
“James Milner is a competitor through and through,” said Hürzeler. “He embodies a winning mentality — the kind of mindset that pushes everyone around him to higher standards. That’s invaluable, especially for a club building its culture like we are at Brighton.”
Though Milner is seven years older than his 32-year-old manager, Hürzeler spoke with admiration about the midfielder’s influence on and off the pitch, suggesting his role extends far beyond game time.
“He’s not just here because of his reputation,” Hürzeler added. “It’s about his behaviour, his leadership, the energy he brings to training and matchdays. He sends messages that resonate through the squad. I’m genuinely grateful to be working with someone of his stature, and hopefully he’ll be with us longer.”
Milner signed with Brighton in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer following a highly decorated spell at Liverpool. Since then, he’s made 23 appearances for the Seagulls, but talks over a contract extension have yet to materialize. With his playing future uncertain, speculation has begun about whether a behind-the-scenes role — potentially within Brighton’s coaching setup — could be on the table.
However, any decision will likely depend on the club’s staffing structure and Milner’s own ambitions, especially with the Leeds-born midfielder possibly considering a return north once his playing days conclude.
Encouragingly, Milner is reportedly close to returning to full fitness, and Hürzeler has not ruled out a late-season cameo. With five league games remaining — starting with a home clash against struggling West Ham this Saturday — there’s still a chance for Milner to add to his remarkable tally of 637 Premier League appearances, second only to Gareth Barry’s 653.
Whether on the pitch or off it, Hürzeler’s words make one thing clear: Brighton still sees value in Milner’s presence — and his next chapter at the Amex may already be in motion.
Alious
