Gareth Taylor and Arne Slot deliver emotional tributes to former Liverpool manager Matt Beard following his passing
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Gareth Taylor and Arne Slot have delivered heartfelt tributes following the passing of Matt Beard, the former Liverpool Women’s team manager. Beard, aged 47, died suddenly and was widely respected for his contributions to women's football.
Beard had two significant spells managing Liverpool Women, first from 2012 to 2015 and then from 2021 until early 2025. During his first tenure, he led the team to back-to-back Women's Super League titles in 2013 and 2014. In his second spell, he successfully guided Liverpool Women back to the top flight by winning promotion to the WSL in 2021. Beard's managerial career also included roles at Chelsea Ladies, West Ham United Women, Millwall Lionesses, Bristol City Women (interim), and most recently Burnley Women.
Gareth Taylor, current manager of Manchester City Women, expressed deep shock and sadness at Beard’s passing, praising Beard’s integrity, warmth, and dedication to the game. Taylor highlighted Beard as a committed professional who left a lasting legacy in the English women’s football community.
Arne Slot, manager of Liverpool FC's men's team, also paid tribute, recognizing Beard’s impact on Liverpool Women and the broader football world. Slot emphasized the emotional resonance of Beard’s loss amongst the Liverpool family, reflecting on the positive personal and professional mark Beard left behind.
Matt Beard’s death has been met with widespread mourning across the football community, underscoring his role not just as a successful coach but as a person deeply respected and fondly remembered by colleagues and players alike. Beard is survived by his wife Debbie, their two children, and a stepson. His influence on women’s football in England remains significant, and his sudden passing is experienced as a profound loss.
PP