CARLA WARD says her decision to stand down as Aston Villa Women’s boss has been the hardest of her managerial career.
The Villans gaffer, 40, who is a mother, intends to prioritise her family life when she departs at the end of this season.
Ward’s announcement yesterday afternoon came a day before her side’s clash with Brighton in their penultimate league game this term.
Her team are currently seventh and six points off sixth-placed Tottenham after rallying following a difficult start to this term's Women’s Super League campaign.
Ward, who became the WSL’s side manager in 2021, said: "Managing a great club like Aston Villa has been a full-throttle job and I have always given the role 100 per cent dedication.
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"However, I now believe it is the right time for me to prioritise the other important things - such as my daughter and the rest of my family life.
"To step down from my post here at Aston Villa has been the hardest decision of my managerial career, but I know it is the right one for my family and I."
Last season under Ward Villa achieved their highest ever finish in the top-flight in fifth spot, following 11 wins and four draws from 22 games.
Results included their first ever defeats of Arsenal and Manchester City in the top tier whilst also reaching the Women’s FA Cup semis.
This followed Ward taking charge after challenging 2020-21 season.
One in which the team narrowly avoided relegation finishing three points and two places above the drop zone.
During her tenure Ward has pulled off some astute transfer signings in a revamp of the side.
Striker Rachel Daly, Canada forward Adriana Leon and ex-Arsenal midfielder Jordan Nobbs were among the players signed by the head coach.
The team also added goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar to their ranks in June last year.
However, the rising Netherlands star’s first season at the club ended prematurely in March this year following surgery on her hip.
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Villa chiefs revealed they had made attempts to persuade Ward to remain post prior to her announcement.
The club’s football operations president, Monchi said: “Carla came to us a few weeks ago and spoke of her plan to step down.
“We have had extensive dialogue with her to see if there was anything we could do to persuade her to stay, but she is adamant that she wants to take a break from the game.
“Therefore, on behalf of everybody at Aston Villa, I want to place on record our grateful thanks to Carla for everything she has achieved with us and wish her well for the future.”
