The football world mourns the loss of Matt Beard, who passed away on 20 September 2025 at the age of 47. Across a career spanning over 350 matches, Beard became one of the most respected and influential figures in women’s football—known for his tactical clarity, player-first ethos, and unwavering commitment to the sport’s growth.
Early Coaching Foundations
Beard began his coaching career in men’s non-league football, serving as reserve team manager at Kingstonian FC and working with Tooting & Mitcham, Hampton & Richmond Borough, and Charlton Athletic Ladies. His first major managerial role came in 2008 with Millwall Lionesses, taking over mid-season and leading them to the FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division title and promotion to the top tier in 2008–09
Chelsea Ladies (2009–2012)
Appointed on captain Casey Stoney’s recommendation, Beard took charge of Chelsea Ladies in 2009. His tenure saw the club reach the 2012 FA Women’s Cup Final (losing 3–2 to Birmingham City), the 2009 FA Premier League Cup semi-finals, and a third-place finish in the FA Women’s Premier League National Division, laying the foundation for Chelsea’s later dominance under Emma Hayes.
Liverpool F.C. Women – First Spell (2012–2015)
Beard’s first stint at Liverpool was transformative, leading the team to back-to-back FA WSL titles in 2013 and 2014, earning FA WSL Manager of the Year both seasons. Liverpool debuted in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and became a benchmark for tactical excellence.
Boston Breakers (2016–2017)
In 2016, Beard joined the Boston Breakers in the NWSL. Results were mixed, with mid-table and lower finishes, but his tenure contributed to tactical evolution and broadened his international experience. He left after the 2017 season.
West Ham United Women (2018–2020)
Beard took over West Ham United Women in 2018, leading them to the 2019 FA Women’s Cup Final (losing 3–0 to Manchester City). He built a competitive squad during their WSL transition, departing by mutual consent in November 2020 after a 7th-place finish in 2019–20.
Bristol City Women (2021)
In early 2021, Beard served as interim manager at Bristol City Women, helping stabilize the squad during a challenging WSL campaign.
Liverpool F.C. Women – Second Spell (2021–2025)
Returning in May 2021, Beard led Liverpool to the 2021–22 FA Women’s Championship title, securing WSL promotion. His second tenure culminated in a fourth-place WSL finish in 2023–24, the club’s best since their title years. He stepped down in February 2025.
Burnley F.C. Women (2025)
Beard was appointed head coach of Burnley FC Women in June 2025 but stepped down in August 2025 after two months, with limited public details on his departure.
Legacy and Tributes
Beard’s career was defined by more than trophies. He was known for his integrity, mentorship, and ability to build competitive squads with care and precision. Tributes poured in from across the football world. Matt Beard will be remembered not just as a manager, but as a builder of futures a man who shaped the modern landscape of women’s football with vision, humility, and heart.
