James Milner has been confirmed as the first home team player for next year's Liverpool Legends charity match, and the 40-year-old says he is "thrilled" at the chance to "pull on the red shirt again." The game is scheduled for March 27, 2027, at Anfield, with kick-off at 3pm.
Milner retired from professional football at the end of the 2025/26 season after a career that included spells at Leeds, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton and Hove Albion, amassing 658 appearances in total. He spent eight years at Liverpool between 2015 and 2023, making 332 appearances after joining on a free transfer from Manchester City.
Milner's Liverpool Legacy
In a statement, Liverpool described Milner as a "model of consistency, versatility and professionalism," noting that he helped the club lift six major honours, including the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020.
Speaking about the honour, Milner said: "I'm thrilled to have the chance to pull on the red shirt again and step back out at Anfield. It's a special place, and playing there in front of the supporters is a feeling like no other."
Charity Impact and Foundation Work
Milner added: "What makes the legends match so special is that it's about more than football. It's a chance to give something back to the fans while supporting the work of the LFC Foundation. I'm delighted to be the first to sign up and can't wait to be part of it."
The James Milner Foundation has supported the LFC Foundation for a decade, helping over 2,000 children enjoy fun activities during school holidays. It recently backed four weeks of free football and multi-sport camps across Anfield and Toxteth, with LFC Foundation coaches teaching over 800 children.
Legends Match History
Ten legends games have been held to date, raising over £10 million for community projects across Liverpool. This year's clash, which took place on March 28, saw Liverpool draw 2-2 with Borussia Dortmund and marked Jurgen Klopp's return to the Anfield sidelines as an assistant coach for the Reds. The rest of the LFC Legends squad will be announced in the coming months, with Liverpool's former stars set to face an Inter Milan legends team.
