3 hours ago
Veteran midfielder James Milner has opened up about the mindset that has helped him join a rare group of footballers who have enjoyed exceptionally long careers at the highest level. The Brighton player recently became the Premier League’s all-time appearance leader at the age of 40.
With this milestone, Milner now stands alongside renowned stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, players who continue to compete at the top level well into their late thirties and beyond. The experienced midfielder has played 656 Premier League matches and still looks fit to continue. Milner has previously represented top English clubs such as Manchester City and Liverpool, winning multiple league titles and the UEFA Champions League trophy during his career. According to Milner, his longevity is the result of strong discipline, hard work, and a deep passion for football.
James Milner Explains the Mindset That Keeps Him Going Like Cristiano Ronaldo
Speaking to Goal, Milner emphasized that his success was no accident. His strong work ethic began early in his career, making his senior debut at just 16 years old for Leeds United, and from that moment, he focused on daily improvement.
Milner believes that in the future, more footballers will be able to play beyond the age of 40. He explained that modern football has evolved in ways that help extend players’ careers. Larger squads and increased substitutions allow players to rest more during matches, while team rotation reduces physical strain over long, demanding seasons filled with multiple competitions.
He also highlighted the significant advancements in sports science, noting that clubs now pay close attention to recovery, nutrition, and fitness programs. However, Milner stressed that mental strength is even more crucial than physical fitness. Once a player loses the motivation to train hard or push themselves in the gym, maintaining top-level performance becomes difficult.
Milner believes he shares the same mentality as Cristiano Ronaldo. He said that loving the game and feeling part of a team keeps him motivated. Ronaldo’s relentless desire to break records and achieve new goals exemplifies how strong ambition can sustain a player at the highest level for many years.
