The world of women’s football is mourning the loss of one of its most influential and beloved figures, as former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard has died at the age of 47. The news, confirmed by Liverpool Football Club on September 20, 2025, has sent shockwaves throughout the sport, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and football associations across England and beyond.
Beard’s impact on the women’s game is undeniable. Over a 17-year managerial career, he led teams through highs and lows, but it was with Liverpool that his legacy was truly cemented. Appointed in 2012, Beard quickly stamped his authority and vision on the club, steering Liverpool Women to back-to-back Women’s Super League (WSL) titles in 2013 and 2014. These triumphs marked a golden era for the Reds, who had never before reached such heights in the women’s game.
After departing Liverpool in 2015, Beard’s journey took him across the women’s football landscape. He managed Chelsea from 2009 to 2012, laying what the club described as “much of the foundations prior to Emma Hayes’ arrival.” The Blues’ tribute highlighted not just his tactical acumen, but also his warmth: “Players and staff alike speak of a man who wasn’t just your manager, he was your friend. He was a caring and loving person who always made time for people. Matt was integral to the growth of the women’s game in this country and is a man who will be sadly missed by everyone in the footballing community.”
Beard’s managerial résumé also included stints with Millwall Lionesses, where he started his career in 2008, West Ham United (2018-2020), Boston Breakers in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), and an interim period at Bristol City. His time at West Ham was particularly memorable, as he led the Hammers to the Women’s FA Cup final in 2019—a landmark achievement for the club.
In 2021, Beard made a highly anticipated return to Liverpool. The club was languishing outside the top flight, but under his leadership, the team earned promotion back to the WSL in his first season at the helm. The following year, he guided the Reds to a seventh-place finish in the top division, and even managed them during their maiden Champions League campaign. His second spell at Liverpool ended in February 2025, but his influence on the club and its players remained palpable.
Liverpool’s official statement captured the mood of those who knew him: “Matt was not only an extremely committed and successful manager, he was also a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club.” The statement continued, “Rest in peace, Matt.”
Beard’s tenure in women’s football was characterized by his authenticity and approachability. Known affectionately as ‘Beardy,’ he was described as “a character who lit up a room.” He was loud, funny, and straight to the point—yet off the pitch, he was a gentle, loving family man. Players and colleagues often spoke of his generosity and his knack for making everyone feel valued, whether they were staff, supporters, or members of the media. He was the type of manager who, after a big win, would celebrate with a pint at the local pub and invite anyone to join the conversation.
His brother, Mark Beard, paid a deeply personal tribute on social media, calling Matt “the most amazing, caring man who was loved by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him.” Mark added, “We will love you forever Matt Matt.” Eastbourne Borough FC, managed by Mark, also sent condolences, stating, “We are sending Mark and his family all of our best wishes.”
The Football Association acknowledged Beard’s pivotal role in the sport, describing him as a “key figure in growing the women’s game.” Their message read, “Matt was a key figure in growing the women’s game and will be missed by all. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.” The WSL echoed these sentiments, noting that Beard “played an instrumental role in the growth of women’s football and will be missed by everyone associated with the game.”
Clubs from across the league, including Burnley—where Beard was appointed manager in June 2025 before resigning in August—expressed their sadness. Burnley’s statement said, “It is with sadness that Burnley can confirm Matt Beard has passed away, at the age of 47. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends.” Millwall Lionesses, where Beard’s managerial journey began, offered their own words: “Everybody at the club is deeply saddened by the passing of former Lionesses manager, Matt Beard. We send all our love and support to his family, friends and colleagues across the many clubs he managed at this very difficult time.”
The outpouring of grief extended far beyond club statements. Players and managers from across the women’s football community shared heartfelt tributes. Emma Hayes, Chelsea’s long-serving manager, wrote, “Can’t quite compute this. Absolutely one of the best humans. Always available for a chat, one of the good guys. A champion in the women’s game and a top bloke. So gutted for his family.”
Gilly Flaherty, who played under Beard, said, “Absolutely devastated and lost for words at the news of losing Beardy tonight. A man I thought so highly of, who in all honesty I would've followed around the world to play for. The best manager & friend I could've ever had asked to have in my life. Rest easy beardy & give my dad a big squeeze please love you gaffer xx.”
Other players, including Alessia Russo, Toni Duggan, Olivia Smith, Missy Bo Kearns, and Rachel Daly, echoed similar sentiments, describing Beard as a “warmest guy with the biggest heart,” “a great man gone far too soon,” and “a truly special man with a heart of gold.” Missy Bo Kearns recalled, “You believed in me from day one and we got on like a house on fire. All the memories we have I'll never forget especially the one where I lost a bet and you made me train in your kit. I'll be there for the family and the kids always because you made me part of the family.”
Beard’s influence was felt not just in trophies and league tables, but in the lives of those he coached and worked alongside. He was twice named WSL Manager of the Season and was widely regarded as a driving force behind the professionalization and growth of women’s football in England. His legacy will live on in the countless players he inspired, the clubs he transformed, and the fans who cheered for his teams.
As the football community continues to process this sudden loss, the tributes and memories serve as a testament to the mark Matt Beard left on the sport. His energy, kindness, and commitment will not be forgotten. For now, women’s football pauses to remember one of its brightest characters—a manager, a mentor, and above all, a friend.
