MUNICH, Germany — Bayern Munich has apologized for tricking fans over a "spectacular new signing" after supporters reacted angrily to a publicity stunt in which the Bundesliga leader sought to increase its fanbase on Facebook.

Bayern says on its website that it had taken fans' numerous comments into account to determine that many were "very angry" with the club.

Bayern says, "We're sorry. But it wasn't our intention to disappoint you with the new FC Bayern app."

Fans had been directed to Facebook to watch the unveiling of a new striker Thursday, where they were requested to "like" Bayern's page in order to view the proceedings.

Instead of learning the identity of striker Mario Gomez's backup, fans were then presented with an app called "The New FCB Star."