Germany’s 2014 World Cup hero has said sorry for his behaviour after the final whistle and has stressed he was equally disappointed as the fans
Bayern Munich forward Mario Gotze has issued an apology for his reaction after the Bavarians’ 3-0 Champions League defeat at the hands of Barcelona at Camp Nou on Wednesday.
The Germany international was seen sharing a joke with Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen after the final whistle in the first leg of the semi-final tie, causing uproar among Bayern fans, who felt the former Borussia Dortmund man did not care about the defeat.
However, Gotze has insisted that he was equally downhearted after the loss at Camp Nou and has apologised for giving a wrong impression.
“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 reads.
“People who think I do not care about the defeat are completely wrong. I was at least as disappointed as my team-mates 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.”
Gotze has been heavily criticised in recent weeks following his underwhelming performances this campaign, with Bayern icon Franz Beckenbauer accusing him of behaving like a youth player earlier this week .
