A fine sub and an assist king - Milner's numberspublished at 12:54 BST 1 June
12:54 BST 1 June
James Milner has called time on a remarkable a 24-year Premier League career, in which he has clocked up numerous impressive and record-breaking statistics.
He made 964 senior appearances for both club and country, with his 658 Premier League appearances the most of any player in competition history.
He is both the youngest and second-oldest Premier League goalscorer, and is 10th in the competition's assist charts, providing 90 across his 658 appearances.
Those 90 assists were for 47 different players in the Premier League, with Liverpool's Roberto Firmino benefitting from more Milner assists than anyone else (10).
Among the records Milner holds during the Premier League era, there is the the most substitute appearances by a player (218), while only eight players have more than his 13 goals as a substitute in the competition.
His 658 Premier League appearances came across six different clubs and in February he became only the fourth outfielder in the competition's history to start a match in his 40s.
'To the fans, thank you' - send us your best Milner moments and memoriespublished at 11:31 BST 1 June
11:31 BST 1 June
Image source, Getty Images
Former Liverpool midfielder James Milner has announced his retirement from playing, bringing the end to a glittering 24-year Premier League career.
The 40-year-old, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Manchester City in June 2015, played for six different teams in England's top flight.
After making his Premier League debut for Leeds United as a 16-year-old in 2002, he went on to break the record for the most Premier League appearances.
Milner, who could play on the wing, in midfield and at full-back, won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Super Cup, two FA Cups, two Carabao Cups, two Community Shields and the Club World Cup throughout his career.
"From making my debut for Leeds United, 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 have been on, right through to not being able to lift my foot last year and then coming back to be part of Brighton qualifying for Europe for the second time in their history at the age of 40.
"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 have 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 is the people and friendships I have 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."
As Milner calls time on his playing career, we want your input. What were his best moments in a Liverpool shirt, and what are your favourite memories?
Slot pays tribute to Jota in farewell letterpublished at 10:49 BST 1 June
10:49 BST 1 June
Lorraine McKenna BBC Sport Journalist
Image source, Getty Images
In his farewell letter, Arne Slot paid tribute to the late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash alongside his brother Andre Silva as the players were preparing to return for pre-season training last summer.
The Dutchman said Jota's passing was "indescribable", but added "the love, compassion and support shown by the Liverpool family was extraordinary".
Slot said: "As I leave this club, it would be remiss of me not to say that the way you honoured Diogo and stood together in his memory will stay with me forever.
"The connection we share goes beyond football, beyond European nights under the Anfield lights or the sound of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' being sung from The Kop."
Slot also told fans he was "privileged to witness first-hand your spirit of compassion and unity" during the club's trophy parade in May 2025, when Paul Doyle drove his car through the crowds on Water Street in the city centre.
Doyle was jailed for 21 years and six months in December for charges including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.
"It is a spirit that has carried this city through difficult moments before, and one that I hope will help bring the justice and accountability so many have campaigned for over many years," he added.
'Unforgettable moments' - Slot pens emotional farewellpublished at 09:03 BST 1 June
09:03 BST 1 June
Lorraine McKenna BBC Sport Journalist
Image source, Liverpool Echo
Arne Slot says he is leaving Liverpool "exactly where it belongs: among Europe's elite" after he was sacked as head coach on Saturday.
The Dutchman, 47, won the Premier League title in his first campaign but was dismissed by the club's hierarchy after the Reds finished fifth in the league this season, 25 points behind champions Arsenal.
Liverpool will open formal talks with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola this week over becoming their new head coach.
In an emotional open letter published in the Liverpool Echo, external, Slot said fans made him feel welcome from the start and helped him on his path.
"That is something I cherish," he added.
"I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead.
"The players who have given so much to this club, who have upheld its values and helped create so many unforgettable moments, have built foundations that will endure."
Despite suffering 20 defeats in all competitions, Slot secured Liverpool's place in next season's Champions League.
"Securing Champions League football was an important responsibility and one that ensures Liverpool can continue competing at the highest level next season and beyond," he added.
"Change is part of football, but I know that this club will continue to make its people proud.
"When I first stood beneath that sign in the Anfield tunnel, I knew what this club demanded. I leave knowing we never stopped striving for it."
Slot replaced Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool boss in 2024 after the German stepped down after nine years as manager.
He made a dream start to his tenure as coach when he delivered the club's 20th league title in front of the home supporters at Anfield with four games to spare.
"It was made even more meaningful because you got to enjoy it with us," said Slot. "Singing our songs, cheering the goals. And on the day we lifted the trophy, you were there - lining the streets outside the stadium, filling Anfield in anticipation.
"Liverpool's 20th league title belongs to all of us and it will remain an important chapter in its history. For that we should all be proud.
"This club will always judge itself by the biggest honours. That is how it should be."
'Sad' and 'let down' - fans on Konate and need for 'busy' summerpublished at 08:11 BST 1 June
08:11 BST 1 June
Image source, Getty Images
We asked for your views on Liverpool's central defensive options after Ibrahima Konate's departure and whether they need to add to that department.
Here are some of your comments:
William: We have had defensive issues for a couple of seasons now. Ibou, if we're all honest, wasn't good enough. He has too many mistakes in his game but he had to play because we didn't have enough defenders, that is a failure of the club. And now we need to get good defenders in place quickly for pre-season.
Velan: After a very inconsistent season that Konate had, it is difficult to argue his case to stay. Whatever may be the mitigating circumstances, his season had too many poor performances and costly errors. Liverpool need to replace Konate and Gomez - at least one top centre-back with Premier League experience like Van Hecke is bare minimum.
Nate: I feel as though we've been let down by the club again. How we don't get a contract for Konate doesn't make any sense. He was so good during the title-winning season and now it leaves us with no depth at the backline. All we can hope is that the summer will be busy.
Mark: I am sad to see Ibou go, but I can understand the club holding a line on wages. His consistency has always been an issue and he always has a mistake in him. The decision really is allowing another player to leave on a free. I wish him well and time will tell if he reaches his full potential at his new destination.
Shaun: Didn't have to be his final time. That's his decision.
Craig: With a new manager comes fresh ideas, fresh opportunities. Ideally we need one more centre-back, a left-footed centre-back like Levi Colwill but Nico Schlotterbeck seems the more likely. Big opportunity for Leoni and Jacquet to make an impact as well. Let's keep Gomez for another year and along with Van Dijk I think we will have enough for the season.
'I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt'published at 18:24 BST 31 May
18:24 BST 31 May
Image source, Getty Images
Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate has said he "gave everything I had for this badge" during his five-year stay at Anfield, as it was confirmed he will leave the club this summer on a free transfer.
Konate, who was a first-team stalwart under Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot, won a Premier League title, an FA Cup, two Carabao Cups and the Community Shield during his time with the Reds, after signing from RB Leipzig in July 2021.
The 27-year-old posted his own farewell message on Instagram, external, which read: "Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
"Representing this club has been an honour. We've shared incredible moments together... highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships and heart-breaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo [Jota].
"Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.
"To my team-mates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.
"And to the supporters... thank you for your love, your energy and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted.
"I am deeply saddened that I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn't know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go.
"This isn't an easy goodbye, but it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter."
Konate's departure leaves 34-year-old captain Virgil van Dijk as arguably Liverpool's only reliable senior centre-back.
Joe Gomez still has a year left on his current contract, but has not been first choice and has suffered with injuries, while also being required to fill in at right-back.
Young defender Giovanni Leoni missed most of his debut campaign after tearing his ACL, while 20-year-old Jeremy Jacquet is likely to need time to settle when he officially joins the Reds this summer.
So, how are you feeling about Liverpool's central defensive options? Do they need to add anyone with Konate going - and if so, who?
'A risk worth taking' or 'go all out for Luis Enrique'? Fans on Iraola approachpublished at 14:55 BST 31 May
14:55 BST 31 May
Image source, Getty Images
We asked for your views on whether outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola would be the right choice for Liverpool to succeed the sacked Arne Slot or whether you would prefer someone else.
The Reds have approached the 43-year-old Spaniard to discuss the role.
Here are some of your comments:
Carl: If he doesn't have us playing like crabs going side to side again for another season and understands that central midfielders don't play right-back then he'll be an improvement that's for sure. It would be a gamble but his style of football at Bournemouth is much closer to what we loved under Jurgen Klopp than anything Slot could bring. A risk worth taking.
Mike: Very happy with the Iraola approach. His attitude and work-rate, and that of his teams, is a better fit for Liverpool and what we need to right the wrongs of this season.
Mez: No-brainer. He's been the manager of the season.
Mark: I have always enjoyed how Bournemouth played under Iraola and feel a similar excitement to when we announced Klopp. Thanks, Arne, we will never forget the 20th title, but a change is needed.
Alex: Iraola would be a gamble. Do Liverpool have the squad for heavy metal football now? We're in a bit of a mess with last year's signings still to settle in and older players leaving. Luis Enrique would be my choice. He might be tempted to take on a new challenge after Paris St-Germain's Champions League victory.
James: Just go all out for Luis Enrique! A big name is the only way to sort the dressing room that Slot lost.
Ken: I want Liverpool to take a bit of time to get this appointment right. Sporting director Richard Hughes needs to redeem himself by doing everything he can to persuade Luis Enrique to swap Paris for Liverpool. If that fails, then Iraola would be an acceptable alternative given his body of work in the Premier League.
David: I've got nothing against Iraola but this seems like a backwards step for Liverpool. I'd want a manager who has a proven track record of winning trophies, not one who delivers mid-table positions at the end of the season.
Paul: Iraola would be a risk. Bournemouth, and Brighton and Brentford, just seem to be a brilliantly run clubs and that no matter who comes in they punch well above their weight. When supposedly top managers leave these clubs they don't do as well as is expected of them and this could also be the case for Iraola. I think we need to try and get a more experienced coach who will immediately command the respect of the dressing room.
'Thank you, Trainer' - Van Dijk leads parting messages to Slotpublished at 14:37 BST 31 May
14:37 BST 31 May
Image source, Getty Images
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says he will "never forget" winning the Premier League title under Arne Slot.
The 34-year-old has won two English top-flight titles with Liverpool to date, and he personally thanked Slot - who was sacked on Saturday - for his efforts since taking charge of the club on 1 June 2024.
Van Dijk posted a picture of the pair on his Instagram story alongside the caption: "We'll never forget winning the Premier League in our first season together.
"Thank you, Trainer, and best of luck to you and your family for the future."
Hugo Ekitike, who Slot signed from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £69m deal, posted his own story which read: "Thank you for everything you taught me and for the time you gave me, both on and off the pitch. I wish you all the very best, coach."
Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch also took to Instagram to write: "Thank you for everything, coach! Lifting the Premier League trophy together was an incredible achievement and a moment I'll never forget. Wishing you all best for the future."
Rio Ngumoha, who was given his first Premier League start under the Dutch head coach, simply wrote: "Thank you, Gaffer" alongside a folded hands emoji, while Jeremie Frimpong posted: "Thank you for everything, coach. All the best for the future!"
'Playing style a huge factor' in Slot's dismissalpublished at 12:45 BST 31 May
12:45 BST 31 May
Media caption,
BBC Radio Merseyside's Ian Kennedy caught up with Liverpool.com editor Matt Addison and The Redmen TV's Ste Plunkett to discuss Arne Slot's dismissal and predict who could be next to take the reins at Anfield.
Addison said the announcement "absolutely came as a surprise" to him, adding that there is "an argument both ways" for the decision.
He added: "The playing style has certainly been a huge factor in this."
On outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who is the leading contender for the job, Plunkett said: "They have been very difficult to play against because they are totally on the front foot. They ask you questions for the entire 90 minutes and their transition is electric.
"That is the type of football that re-engages the fans with the team."
'Lacked that authority Jurgen had'published at 08:06 BST 31 May
08:06 BST 31 May
Aadam Patel Liverpool reporter
Image source, Getty Images
There were question marks over whether the players truly believed in Arne Slot's methods.
One club source, who was also at Liverpool during Jurgen Klopp's tenure, said: "Arne's a great person but you always felt he lacked that authority Jurgen had and that became more evident when things weren't going well on the pitch."
The departure of veterans Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and now Ibrahima Konate is telling too.
Slot was never going to be Klopp but he won the Premier League title at the first time of asking and deserves immense credit for that. For that alone, he will be a part of Liverpool's illustrious history.
The understanding is that FSG initially backed Slot to rebuild the supporter faith that has waned considerably during this campaign's struggles.
But, as the season concluded, the belief became that delaying the decision which looked increasingly inevitable would be unfair on the squad and damaging to preparations for 2026-27.
Andoni Iraola is the leading candidate and contact has already been made, with his immediate availability also playing a part in severing ties with Slot.
For Slot, there is no bad blood with Liverpool, but he is of the belief that he has been dealt a tough card with the situation this past season.
Liverpool's points tally fell from 84 in 2024-25 to 60 in 2025-26; with the swing of minus 24 the biggest drop by any ever-present Premier League side across two campaigns.
There was no sign of Liverpool reversing that shift in the last few months of the season.
Slot finished his first campaign lifting the Premier League trophy in front of the Kop and ended his second sitting alone in the dugout. That was six days ago, when it seemed entirely like Liverpool were sticking with the Dutchman.
But modern-day football is brutal. This is a club firmly in transition and, sadly for Slot, Liverpool want a new man to manage that change.
Gossip: Inter not offering enough for Jonespublished at 07:49 BST 31 May
07:49 BST 31 May
Liverpool and Inter Milan are in talks over a deal for Curtis Jones but the Reds want more than the proposed 20m euros (£17.3m) to sell the midfielder. (Fabrizio Romano), external
Meanwhile, Chelsea have decided against making Ibrahima Konate, who is set to leave Anfield on a free transfer, an offer, with the defender's representatives in talks with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. (Teamtalk), external
Iraola the frontrunner with approach made - what do you think?published at 19:26 BST 30 May
19:26 BST 30 May
Image source, Getty Images
Outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is the leading contender to replace the sacked Arne Slot at Liverpool.
The club have approached the 43-year-old Spaniard to discuss the role.
Iraola is one of the most highly rated coaches in Europe and known for his attacking style of play.
He was appointed at Bournemouth when Richard Hughes was technical director at the Cherries, a role he left in 2024 to join the Reds as sporting director.
Bournemouth finished only one place and three points behind Liverpool to qualify for next season's Europa League.
Would Iraola be the right choice? If not, why not - and who would you go for instead?
🎧 The Debrief: Slot out at Liverpoolpublished at 19:25 BST 30 May
19:25 BST 30 May
Matt Upson, Chris Sutton, John Murray and Julien Laurens join Steve Crossman on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast to react to Arne Slot being sacked by Liverpool.
The team discuss whether the decision is harsh after Slot won the club's 20th Premier League title in his first season, before performances on the pitch declined the next campaign.
'Liverpool needed change but it is sad'published at 16:32 BST 30 May
16:32 BST 30 May
Chloe Bloxam Fan contributor
Media caption,
I'm quite stunned about Liverpool sacking Arne Slot, not necessarily because I didn't think change was needed - because I did - but because of all the reports that have been coming out towards the end of the season about there being mitigating factors and that the club would continue to back him.
I just did not see this coming. I'm quite sad at how it's ended. Liverpool needed change but it is sad for Slot.
A year ago, I was celebrating a Premier League title. I was happiest I've been in terms of footy in ages because Slot brought us number 20 - and for that I will forever be grateful.
There's a difference between being aggressive towards your manager and just realising that maybe it's time to move on, and I think that's where I am at.
I am thankful to Slot for absolutely everything he's done for Liverpool, not just around winning us number 20, but also around the sad passing of Diogo Jota.
The season obviously went the way it did and it's not been good enough for Liverpool. I'm not seeing an identity, I didn't see any progression.
I think Liverpool have decided that it's a bigger risk to not go and get a new manager than it would be to stick with Slot.
I don't think Liverpool were interested in Xabi Alonso. If they were, this would have came out a couple of weeks ago.
I believe they've looked at the data of Slot's season and the data on [Andoni] Iraola [the frontrunner to be appointed] and they've just decided it's a bigger risk staying with Slot than it is to move on and go with Iraola.
'Liverpool fans got disheartened with performances' - Warnockpublished at 16:28 BST 30 May
16:28 BST 30 May
Image source, Getty Images
Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock believes it was the right decision to dismiss Arne Slot, but added that "there's an argument for both sides".
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "When you think of winning the 20th league title for Liverpool, the incredible job that he did, those unprecedented times over the summer last year with the passing of Diogo Jota - that was very difficult.
"However, there were huge amounts of money spent over the summer period. It was to close the gap on the likes of Paris St-Germain, who were the team in Europe everyone wanted to chase down and emulate - be as good as if not better.
"People will argue that £450m wasn't the full amount and that they recouped about £200m. It doesn't matter. They brought in £450m worth of talent and it has simply not worked this season and the Liverpool fans got disheartened with performances.
"When I've been there in recent weeks, there's a sense that invincibility has disappeared from Anfield and teams feel like they can turn up and cause problems, and that is just not the feeling we expect of a Liverpool team.
"Watching them over the past few weeks, I did feel that Slot had lost a lot of players on the pitch - a lot of belief in what he was asking them to do."
Liverpool believe the team must evolve againpublished at 15:41 BST 30 May
15:41 BST 30 May
Aadam Patel Liverpool reporter
Image source, Getty Images
It was just over two weeks ago when Arne Slot told reporters at Liverpool's AXA Training Centre that he had "every reason to believe" he would be the Reds manager next season.
Slot was a major part of planning for next season and, at various times over the past few months, spoke about the importance of the summer ahead for Liverpool as they continue their transition, following a record spend of £415m in the same period last season.
So when the Dutchman was informed on Saturday morning, after a decision made by sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG chief executive Michael Edwards, that he was to be sacked, it was a shock to Slot.
His contract was set to expire next summer.
As recently as Friday, Slot's representatives believed there was no change in the support shown by Liverpool over the course of what the 47-year-old described to BBC Sport in February as the "toughest season" he has had.
A campaign that started with the tragic death of Diogo Jota and Liverpool hit hard by injuries ended with the team losing 19 games.
Add in the regular occurrence of boos from supporters at Anfield and the ugly breakdown of his relationship with Mohamed Salah and you can see why Slot and Liverpool were truly pushed to the limits.
Liverpool believe that, having had a chance to assess the situation now the season is over, the team must evolve again.
Major signings were made last summer, with Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni joining, and more are planned this summer, with Jeremy Jacquet already confirmed in a £60m deal from Rennes.
Fundamentally, the feeling is that the next phase demands a front-foot, aggressive and urgent style of football, and that Slot is not the man for that.
'A lot of challenges on and off the pitch but the right decision'published at 15:41 BST 30 May
15:41 BST 30 May
Image source, Getty Images
We asked for your reaction to the sacking of Arne Slot, whether it was the right call and what you make of the timing.
Here are some of your comments:
Jack B: Too slow by FSG! The opportunity to make this change has been there for months and yet they make it now that prime candidate (Xabi Alonso) has moved to a Premier League rival. And all this after spending so heavily on players last summer presumably following Slot's vision! Sums up the season - a dismal mess.
Charlotte: I feel bad but I think he needed to go. Regrettable that Mo Salah has already announced his departure because maybe he could have stayed. This is what is best for the club if we want to get back to the standards we need to uphold.
Sonny: For Liverpool to sack a coach it usually takes a lot, and while he may have been sacked by Chelsea or Manchester United, I didn't see us being that bold. I feel sorry for him, as winning the league surely buys you a third season, or at least part of one. While I was not optimistic in the slightest for next season, it still feels as if it has ended in an unsatisfactory way. Thank you for everything, Arne. You will always be remembered for that 20th title.
Adrian: Sad but necessary. Slot had an amazing first campaign but we have lost our way this season. A lot of challenges on and off the pitch but the right decision. Thank you for the Premier League title Arne - good luck!
Ian: I'm not sure this is the best decision but a lot of fans will be happy. Only time will tell.
Alfie: I have mixed feelings about it. However, I am happy we did it now rather than wait and do it in the first few months of the next season. There are many decent managers on the market at the minute so I think the club have made the right decision.
Dean: Sad but it needed to be done. He had lost the dressing room and his tactics were too erratic. Also he never had any stability in his squad choices - there was little consistency.
Lisa: Definitely the right thing to do, but too late. Too late to get Alonso in as manager, when he was free and perfect to step in. More importantly, too late for Mo Salah and Andy Robertson. We need someone who truly understands what Liverpool means - to the players, to the fans and to the city.
