Matt Beard: Former Liverpool Women Manager Dies Aged 47
Matt Beard, former manager of Liverpool and Chelsea Women’s football teams, has died at the age of 47. (reuters.com)
Beard had a notable coaching career, leading Liverpool to consecutive Women’s Super League (WSL) titles in 2013 and 2014. He returned to Liverpool in 2021, guiding them back to the top flight after two seasons in the second tier. His final coaching role was a short stint with Burnley from June to August before leaving Liverpool in February. (reuters.com)
Liverpool praised him as a dedicated and successful manager known for his integrity and warmth, announcing that their upcoming WSL match against Aston Villa had been postponed in his honor. (reuters.com)
Beard began his managerial career with Millwall before moving to Chelsea in 2009, where he played a foundational role prior to Emma Hayes’ era. Chelsea acknowledged his significant contribution to the growth of women’s football in England and expressed their condolences, emphasizing that he will be deeply missed across the football community. (reuters.com)
His wife, Deb, wrote on social media: “It is with great sadness that our beautiful Matthew Beard has passed away tonight [Saturday] at 7:28pm. He is a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle.” (news.sky.com)
Beard’s older brother, Mark, who played for Millwall, Sheffield United, and Southend, also paid tribute, stating: “He is a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle. He was the most amazing, caring man who was loved by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him. We will love you forever Matt.” (news.sky.com)
Throughout his career, Beard achieved notable honors, including two WSL titles and the FA Women’s Championship in 2021-22, alongside individual managerial accolades such as the FA WSL Manager of the Season (2013, 2023–24) and LMA FA Women’s Championship Manager of the Year (2022). (lfclive.net)
The football community continues to remember Matt Beard not only for his tactical acumen but also for his genuine kindness and dedication to advancing women’s football.
