Matt Beard, Former Liverpool Women’s Manager, Dies at 47

LIVERPOOL, England — Former Liverpool and Burnley manager Matt Beard has died at the age of 47, the Women’s Super League club announced. The club shared its deep shock and sadness over the sudden passing of the celebrated coach.

Beard managed Liverpool’s women’s team in two separate tenures, leading them to consecutive Women’s Super League (WSL) titles in 2013 and 2014. He also helped secure their promotion back to the top flight during his second spell with the club.

His wife, Deb, confirmed his passing on social media, writing, “It is with great sadness that our beautiful Matthew Beard has passed away tonight at 7:28 p.m. 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.”

Liverpool Football Club expressed its condolences, stating, “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this devastating time. Matt was not only an extremely committed and successful manager, but also a person of real integrity and warmth.”

The Women’s Super League also released a statement acknowledging Beard’s contributions to women’s football. “Everyone at WSL extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and loved ones of Matt Beard following news of his passing. Matt played an instrumental role in the growth of women’s football and will be missed by everyone associated with the game.”

Beard was previously the manager at Burnley and had also taken charge of West Ham, where he led the team to a Cup final, as well as managing Bristol City, Chelsea, and Boston Breakers. In 2013 and 2014, he was named the WSL’s manager of the year.

He left Burnley in August 2025 after being appointed just two months earlier. Tributes have poured in from various clubs, including Dorking Wanderers and Eastbourne Borough, expressing their condolences to Beard’s family.

As the football community mourns his loss, many remember Beard for his impactful career and the legacy he leaves in women’s football.