His first game in charge was a 0–1 defeat at Cardiff City, three days after his appointment.[23] His first win as Southampton's manager came on 16 December in a 3–2 win at home to Arsenal, ending the Gunners' four-month 22-match unbeaten run. On 27 April 2019, Southampton secured Premier League status after a 3–3 draw against Bournemouth at St Mary's.[24] They finished the season in 16th place.[25]