Former Liverpool Women’s Boss Matt Beard Dies Aged 47

Former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard has passed away at the age of 47, the club confirmed on Saturday, Sport360NG reports.

Beard was one of the most recognisable figures in women’s football, guiding Liverpool to back-to-back Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014 during his first spell at the club. He returned in 2021, leading the Reds back into the top flight after winning the Women’s Championship and securing a seventh-place finish on their return. However, his second tenure came to an end earlier this year when he was dismissed in February.

In a statement, Liverpool described him as “an extremely committed and successful manager” while remembering him as “a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be held in fond regard by everyone he worked with at the club.”

Beard also oversaw Liverpool’s debut in the Women’s Champions League and was a key figure in shaping the early years of the WSL.

Tributes from family and football community

His brother, Mark, called him “the most amazing, caring man who was loved by everyone fortunate enough to meet him,” in an emotional post on social media.

The Football Association hailed him as a “key figure” in the women’s game, while the WSL described his influence as “instrumental in the growth of women’s football.” Burnley, where he was briefly in charge earlier this summer before stepping down after two months, also paid their respects, saying their “thoughts and prayers” were with his family.

Clubs where he previously worked, including Millwall Lionesses, Chelsea, West Ham, Bristol City and Boston Breakers in the United States, also issued statements honouring his contribution to the sport.

A larger-than-life character

Known affectionately as “Beardy,” Beard was remembered as a passionate, charismatic figure who made a deep impression on players, staff and supporters alike. On the touchline he was a commanding presence, but away from the pitch he was seen as approachable, humorous and caring, often likened to “a giant teddy bear.”

He had a close relationship with Liverpool fans, celebrating their successes with them at Prenton Park and even in nearby pubs after big wins. He was equally open with the media, frequently chatting informally about tactics, results and the realities of managing at the top level.

Beyond football, Beard was a devoted father who often joked about family life and shared stories about his children. Friends say he once dreamed of starting a podcast to discuss the “real issues” in women’s football.

Players and coaches pay respects

Tributes from across the women’s game have poured in. Chelsea boss Emma Hayes described him as “one of the best humans, a champion in the women’s game and a top bloke.” Aston Villa head coach Carla Ward said she was “heartbroken,” while England forward Alessia Russo called him “the warmest guy with the biggest heart.”

Former Liverpool captain Gilly Flaherty wrote: “Absolutely devastated and lost for words. The best manager and friend I could have asked for. Rest easy, Beardy.”

Liverpool forward Missy Bo Kearns added: “You believed in me from day one… you made me part of the family. Lots of love, Headache xxx.”

England’s Rachel Daly summed up the mood across the football community: “A truly special man with a heart of gold. RIP Beardy.”

Matt Beard leaves behind a lasting legacy in women’s football, remembered not only for his achievements on the pitch but also for the kindness and warmth he shared with those around him.