The LMA is deeply saddened by the passing of LMA Member Matt Beard.
Paying tribute to Matt, LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan said: “Matt was a true champion of women's football and dedicated his early career to advancing the game on its path to professionalisation. He played an integral role in the development of players, coaches, and the wider game as one of the most active managers in women’s football over the past 15 years, achieving success at some of the biggest clubs in the game.
“He was an extremely passionate football manager, who demonstrated his drive and ambition to us whilst studying the LMA Diploma in Football Management in 2023. In recent years, his managerial acumen was recognised by his peers, as the LMA was pleased to award him Manager of the Year awards in 2022 and 2024 for the respective leagues, showing the impact he had whilst manager of Liverpool.
“Away from football, Matt was hugely popular and loved by those that knew him well. His sense of humour and big personality was matched by his empathy and kindness and he will be sorely missed by his friends in the LMA.
“Our thoughts are with Matt’s wife Debbie, his children and family at this incredibly difficult time.”
LMA Committee Member Emma Hayes added: "Matt Beard was an incredible investor in the women’s game and someone who will be remembered by his players, his staff, and his colleagues for the amazing character that he was.
"He was always smiling, always coaching from the touchline. He was someone who gave a huge deal to the game and to his players. Everyone across the game can speak to the qualities and character of Matt Beard.
"Matt will leave a huge void in the women’s game. He was one of a kind, and his loss will be felt by all. My heart goes out to his family, but I want to take the time to acknowledge what a special man he really was."
Matt launched his managerial career with Millwall Lionesses in 2008, impressively steering the team to promotion in his very first season. This success led to a move to Chelsea, where he spent three years, guiding the team to an FA Cup Final.
He cemented his reputation as one of the best coaches in the game at Liverpool, where he orchestrated back-to-back FA WSL title wins in 2013 and 2014, also being named FA WSL Manager of the Year. A move to Boston Breakers in the United States followed, before returning to the WSL in key managerial roles at West Ham United and Bristol City.
In 2021, Beard returned to Liverpool, leading them to the Women’s Championship title in 2022 and stabilising the team in the WSL, before leaving in early 2025. He briefly took charge of Burnley Women before departing last month.
