Bayern Munich's Mario Gotze apologises for sharing joke with Barcelona keeper

Munich, May 8 (IANS): Bayern Munich striker Mario Gotze has apologised for his behaviour after his German club's 0-3 loss to Barcelona in the first leg of the European Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night at the Camp Nou Stadium in the Spanish city.

Germany's World Cup hero, Gotze was seen sharing a joke with Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen after the final whistle in the first leg of the semi-final. It caused an uproar among Bayern fans, who felt the former did not care much about the heart-breaking loss.

However, the 22-year-old on Thursday insisted he was equally hurt after the debacle and has apologised for sending a wrong signal to the fans.

“There have been reports in the press that I was joking around and having fun with my friend Marc-Andre ter Stegen after the game,” a statement on Gotze's official website read.

“People who think I do not care about the defeat are completely wrong. I was at least as disappointed as my teammates and the fans.

“If things looked different, I would like to apologise for that. I would like to make it clear that I always give my all for the team.

“I want to achieve success with the club and I always behave respectful toward fans, Bayern and opponents," the release added.

The former Borussia Dortmund star has faced severe criticism from fans following some mediocre performances in the recent past.