Liverpool Women appoint Gareth Taylor

Gareth Taylor is appointed head coach after an interim period, with Liverpool aiming to rise back into the league’s elite.

Gareth Taylor named Liverpool Women head coach

Liverpool Women have appointed Gareth Taylor as their new head coach, filling the role after Amber Whiteley led the side on an interim basis following Matt Beard’s February departure. Taylor, 52, previously led Manchester City Women from 2020 until March, winning the FA Cup in 2020 and the League Cup in 2022, but missing the WSL title in 2023/24 to Chelsea on goal difference.

Liverpool say the choice underlines a plan to restore the club to the upper echelons of the league, with the season opener against local rivals Everton set for September 7 and broadcast live by Sky Sports. Andy O’Boyle, Liverpool Women’s managing director, called the appointment a careful choice and highlighted Taylor’s ability to build identity driven teams and develop players to reach the next level. The shift comes as Sky Sports signs a new five year partnership to broadcast most WSL matches from the 2025/26 season, reflecting a broader push to raise the profile of women’s football.

Taylor’s strength in developing players and his academy background align with Liverpool’s aim to build an identity driven team. The move also signals ambition as the WSL expands and broadcasting grows.

At the same time, Taylor’s departure from City after a famous late season split and a high profile transfer dispute with Chloe Kelly last January linger in the background and could test early trust from players and fans. Liverpool will need to show patience and results while staying true to a long term plan that values youth and style as much as results.

Highlights

The season will test whether identity and development can translate into results.