James Milner has signed a one-year contract extension to stay at Liverpool until the end of next season.
The 36-year-old’s deal was due to expire this month and he has agreed to a major pay cut to stay with the club he joined from Manchester City in 2015. Milner is understood to have had offers from at least one other. Premier League club and two teams abroad.
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Jürgen Klopp was looking to retain a player who made 39 appearances in the 2021-22 season, 25 as a substitute. The Liverpool contract proposal was made in February and Milner decided to wait until the end of the season to confirm he would stay.
“I’ve never taken it for granted at this club and I never will,” Milner said. “A key feeling for me, and of vital importance in the process, was the belief that I could still contribute to the team. The gaffer was clear about what he was thinking and that was an important factor in being able to extend my contract. I can still play my part, it’s not an easy thing to leave.
“Last season was extraordinary, although it didn’t have the end we were expecting, but I think that will only make us want more success, honestly. I felt that after the parade and that also influenced my decision making. It is a unique club. Now that this is signed, I want to go back with everyone, refocus and get back on track. It’s a brilliant dressing room to be a part of. “
Klopp’s love for Milner, who has played in midfield and on the right wing, became apparent after Liverpool’s Newcastle victory on April 30, which the former England international started. “It’s hard to be fitter than Milly,” the manager said. “It’s a role model. I told him, I can tell the whole world: nothing we’ve achieved in recent years would have happened without James Milner, it’s as easy as that. Whether he was on the field or not. , he has set standards in a way that not many people can set standards, and he educated us all. “
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Bayern Munich will continue talks with Liverpool in the coming days in hopes of reaching an agreement to sign Sadio Mané. The striker wants to leave and personal conditions with the Bundesliga champions would not be a problem, but Liverpool are reluctant to sell unless they receive a substantial offer for the 30-year-old, who has a one-year contract. Ideally, Klopp would also like to line up a substitute first.