The football community is in mourning after the tragic death of Matt Beard, former manager of Liverpool Women’s football team, who was found hanging at his home in Deeside, Flintshire, on September 20, 2025. The local coroner’s court confirmed the death as suicide, with a full inquest scheduled for a later date. Beard was 47 years old.
Career Overview of Matt Beard
Matt Beard was a highly respected figure in women’s football, with a managerial career spanning over 17 years. Known for his passion for the women’s game and his dedication to player development, Beard’s leadership brought success and progress to several clubs.
| Year | Role/Club | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 2008-2009 | Millwall Lionesses | Promotion to top tier; FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division title |
| 2009-2012 | Chelsea Women | Led club to first FA Cup final (2012); consistent league performances |
| 2012-2015 | Liverpool Women (1st spell) | Back-to-back FA WSL titles (2013, 2014); FA WSL Manager of the Year (2013, 2014) |
| 2016 | Boston Breakers (NWSL, USA) | Head coach position in the National Women’s Soccer League |
| 2018-2020 | West Ham Women | Reached FA Cup Final (2019) at Wembley |
| 2021-2025 | Liverpool Women (2nd spell) | Secured promotion back to WSL (2021); Champions League debut; 7th place in WSL (2023-24) |
| 2025 (Jun-Aug) | Burnley Women | Brief spell before resigning |
Early Years and Rise
Starting as a reserve coach for Kingstonian and working with teams like Tooting & Mitcham and Charlton Athletic Ladies, Beard’s early leadership was marked by steady success. His managerial breakthrough came at Millwall Lionesses with a divisional title and promotion, setting the stage for his rise in women’s football.
Liverpool Women’s Glory Years
Matt Beard’s most celebrated period came during his two spells managing Liverpool Women. His first term led to historic back-to-back WSL titles in 2013 and 2014. These triumphs ended Arsenal’s long-standing dominance of the league and cemented Liverpool’s place among the elite in women’s football. Beard was praised for his tactical acumen and his ability to inspire and nurture talented players including Lucy Bronze and Fara Williams.
He returned in 2021 to a struggling Liverpool side that had been relegated. Under Beard’s guidance, the team won the FA Women’s Championship and regained their place in the WSL. They then exceeded expectations with a solid top-four finish in 2023-24, showcasing his skill in rebuilding teams even under tight budgets.
Legacy and Tributes
Beard was widely admired for his integrity, kindness, and personal commitment to players and staff. Tributes poured in from across the football community, with fellow managers, players, and fans remembering him as an inspirational leader and a deeply caring individual.
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Manchester United’s Marc Skinner called Beard an “icon” of the women’s game.
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England legend Fara Williams praised his “purest of souls.”
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Liverpool’s Missy Bo Kearns and other players recalled his belief in them and motivating presence.
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His brother Mark Beard described him as the “most incredible, caring man.”
The Football Association and other football organizations extended condolences, recognizing Beard as a key figure in the evolution and professionalism of women’s football in England.
Personal Life
Born on January 9, 1978, Beard was married to Debbie and had two children, along with a stepson involved in youth football coaching. His brother Mark is a former professional footballer. Beard’s sudden death has been a shocking loss to his family and to the wider football world.
Conclusion
Matt Beard’s contribution to women’s football goes beyond trophies. He was instrumental in the growth and recognition of the women’s game, nurturing talent and pushing for higher standards on and off the pitch. His passing is deeply felt, and his legacy will endure in the sport he loved and helped shape.