Matt Beard Death and Obituary – The world of football is mourning the sudden loss of Matt Beard, the highly respected former manager of Liverpool FC Women, Chelsea Women, and West Ham United Women, who has died at the age of 47. His passing was announced on September 20, 2025, by his wife, Debbie, leaving the women’s football community in deep shock and sorrow.
Beard’s managerial career spanned over two decades, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the modern women’s game in England. Known not only for his tactical acumen but also for his humanity and unwavering support of his players, Beard leaves behind a legacy of achievement, mentorship, and respect across the footballing world.
Career Highlights
Beard first rose to prominence with Chelsea Women, where he laid vital foundations for the club’s future success. Spending three years in charge, he helped develop the team ahead of Emma Hayes’ transformative arrival, instilling professionalism and structure that became the cornerstone of Chelsea’s growth into one of Europe’s elite sides.
It was, however, with Liverpool Women that Beard cemented his reputation as one of the leading figures in women’s football management. In his first spell with the club, he guided Liverpool to back-to-back Women’s Super League (WSL) titles in 2013 and 2014, a historic achievement that elevated the club’s profile and redefined competitive standards within the league. Returning for a second stint years later, Beard once again worked wonders, steering Liverpool back into the WSL after two seasons in the second tier, demonstrating his resilience and ability to rebuild winning teams.
At West Ham Women, Beard enjoyed another memorable chapter, famously guiding the club to the 2019 Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley. Though West Ham fell short against Manchester City, the run to the final highlighted his ability to maximize talent and inspire belief in his squads.
Tributes and Legacy
Since the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from across the football community. Emma Hayes, Chelsea’s long-serving manager, described Beard as “one of the best humans” and a true “champion in the women’s game.” Prominent players including Millie Bright, Rachel Daly, and Natasha Dowie also paid heartfelt respects, recalling his supportive leadership and deep care for his players on and off the pitch.
Liverpool FC Women issued a statement expressing their devastation, calling Beard a man of “integrity, warmth, and commitment,” while acknowledging the immense role he played in the club’s history. Across social media, fans, former players, and colleagues celebrated not only his footballing achievements but also his kindness, generosity, and passion for elevating women’s football to new heights.
Matt Beard’s untimely death at just 47 has left a profound void in the football world. His legacy will endure through the countless players he coached, the clubs he transformed, and the broader impact he had in advancing the women’s game. Above all, he will be remembered as a mentor, a leader, and a man who believed deeply in the people he worked with.
