Former Liverpool Women Manager Matt Beard Passes Away Aged 47 — Legacy, Career & Tributes

Former Liverpool Women manager Matt Beard has died at the age of 47. The news was confirmed by Liverpool Football Club on the evening of Saturday, September 20, 2025, with a brief but heartfelt statement. The club expressed deep shock and sadness at the sudden loss. Beard’s family and friends are being kept in the club’s thoughts during this devastating time. 

Former Liverpool Women Manager Matt Beard Passes Away 

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.

Career Highlights & Contributions

Matt Beard enjoyed an impressive managerial career, especially with Liverpool Women:

He first joined Liverpool Women in 2012 and swiftly led the team to back-to-back FA Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014.

Beard also guided Liverpool into its first Champions League campaign during that early successful period. 

He departed in 2015 to pursue roles in the USA, then rejoined Liverpool Women in 2021. On this return, he led Liverpool Women to the top flight by winning the Women’s Championship.

His roles extended beyond Liverpool: he also managed Boston Breakers, West Ham United Women, Bristol City Women, and most recently Burnley Women, making substantial contributions to women’s football on two continents. 

Beard was remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for his character. The Liverpool statement described him as a man of integrity, warmth, and genuine kindness.

His son, Harry Beard, posted a message on social media, urging others to reach out and seek help if they're struggling.

Impact on Women’s Football

Matt Beard’s passing is a major loss for the women’s game. His success with Liverpool Women, particularly in pioneering their early dominance in the Women’s Super League and helping them reach the Champions League, helped elevate the profile of women’s football in England and abroad.

His leadership and mentorship influenced many players and fellow coaches. His ability to build competitive squads and navigate logistical challenges in different leagues demonstrated his professionalism and adaptability.

Broader Legacy

Beard’s achievements helped set benchmarks: winning titles, promoting teams, and breaking new ground in European competition.

He spanned different continents and clubs, which broadened his influence; he wasn’t limited to a single club or country.

His advocacy and mentorship contributed to the rising standards, opportunities, and visibility of women’s football.

Liverpool FC will mourn privately, and there will likely be tributes and memorial events in due course.

Fans, clubs, and media are expected to pay their respects via statements, moments of silence, and retrospective features honoring Beard’s contributions.

The women’s football community—players, coaches, and supporters—will feel the impact deeply, given Beard’s role in developing talent and elevating the game.

Matt Beard’s death at just 47 is tragic. His successes—especially with Liverpool Women’s early titles and leading the team back to the top flight—mark him as a foundational figure in modern women’s football.

Beyond trophies, his character, leadership, and the warmth with which he is remembered speak to a legacy that transcends wins or losses. His influence in England, across the USA, and in multiple clubs shows a career defined by more than just results: by growth, upliftment, and integrity.

He leaves behind a stronger women’s football landscape—one that was enriched by his passion, guidance, and example. Rest in peace, Matt Beard.