Matt Beard has resigned from his role as manager of Burnley Women, just two games into the start of the Women’s National League season.
The 47-year-old was named as Burnley manager on June 20th, after he was previously sacked by Liverpool back in February.
However, he lasted just 68 days in the job, as the Clarets confirmed on Wednesday morning that Beard had resigned from his position.
Why has Matt Beard left Burnley after just 68 days as manager?
In their official statement, Burnley said they were “disappointed” to confirm that Matt Beard had resigned from his position after little more than two months as manager.
They confirmed that Beard resigned from his position “to pursue other opportunities”.
However, he has been placed on three-month’s gardening leave with immediate effect.
Chairman Alan Pace said: “We’re naturally very disappointed with Matt’s decision, but we’re already looking positively to the future to ensure we remain on track to achieve our objectives for the 2025/26 season and beyond.”
First team coach Louise Roberts will step in as interim manager, while Liam Gilbert will work as her assistant.
We are disappointed to confirm Matt Beard has resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities. The Club’s search for Beard’s replacement is already underway. pic.twitter.com/sGqbIaCo3g
— Burnley FC Women (@BurnleyFCWomen) August 27, 2025
How did Burnley start the season under Matt Beard?
The decision for Matt Beard to leave Burnley is made even more surprising as the Clarets made a positive start to life under the ex-Liverpool head coach.
Burnley, who play in the third-tier Women’s National League North division, started their campaign with a 5-0 victory against Middlesbrough on August 17th.
They also produced an encouraging performance despite being held to a goalless draw by Wolves on Sunday.
The Clarets also beat Chorley Town 2-0 in the FA Women’s National League Cup last week.
Burnley, who are one of the favourites to be promoted to the second-tier of women’s football, sit third after their opening two league games.
The Clarets turned professional before the start of the 2025-26 season. This decision was one that played a “massive part” in Beard taking on the Burnley job.
He said at the time of his appointment: “It played a massive part. For our aspiration to get promoted, it’s a great platform
“It’s been well documented the support the ownership gives to the women’s team. It’s definitely been the right move for me personally.”
What is next for Burnley?
Burnley Women are back in action on Sunday, when they host Loughborough Lightning in their third league game of the season.
The Clarets will also be hoping to find a quick solution following Beard’s departure from the club.
They will hope that the shock announcement won’t derail their promotion hopes this early into the campaign.
