Jürgen Klopp has massive praise for James Milner after the veteran midfielder broke the all-time Premier League appearance record. The former Liverpool boss told ESPN that none of their success together would've been possible without Milner.
Milner made his record-breaking 654th Premier League appearance for Brighton against Brentford on Saturday. He started the match, surpassing Gareth Barry's previous record of 653 games. Not bad for a player who made his debut as a 16-year-old for Leeds back in 2002.
"I can't believe it," Klopp said. "Being part of something for eternity is really special. Reaching that number of appearances is just like landing on the moon. Maybe it only happens once?"
A Career Built on Versatility and Determination
The 40-year-old has played for six Premier League clubs: Leeds, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Brighton. He's picked up silverware at multiple stops, including two Premier League titles with City and another with Liverpool in 2020.
During their time together at Anfield from 2015 to 2023, Milner was crucial to Liverpool's golden era. They won the Champions League in 2019, the Premier League in 2020, and two domestic cups in 2022. Klopp deployed Milner in various positions, including a full season at left-back.
"Of all the success we had at Liverpool, nothing would've happened without him," said Klopp, who left Liverpool last summer and now works as Red Bull's Global Head of Soccer. "That's how it is really."
Why This Record May Never Be Broken
Klopp described Milner as "probably the most disciplined, stubborn, professional football player I have ever worked with." That discipline has been key to his longevity in football's most demanding league.
The German manager believes Milner's versatility extended his career significantly. Playing in every outfield position gave him more opportunities as younger players emerged. "The more positions you can play, it gives you a longer lifetime," Klopp explained.
But it's not just about adaptability. Klopp revealed that Milner's technical ability is among the best he's seen. "From a skill-set perspective, he's one of the top five players I have worked with," he said. Both feet are excellent, he can dribble, and he's smart in tight spaces.
For Brighton fans and bettors watching the Seagulls, Milner's experience continues to provide value even at 40. His contract expires this summer, but he remains focused on helping Brighton push for European qualification. His leadership and reliability make him a steady option when manager Fabian Hürzeler needs him.
Klopp thinks the record will stand forever. "Now you tell me, is there anybody out there who has a little chance to reach that number of games? Probably not," he said. With modern football's demands and injury risks, he's probably right.
Milner has 61 England caps to go with his club achievements. Those close to him say he'll find all this attention awkward, but Klopp couldn't be prouder of his former player reaching this incredible milestone.
