MUNICH (AP) — Bayern Munich apologized for tricking fans over a “spectacular new signing” after supporters reacted angrily to a publicity stunt in which the Bundesliga leaders sought to increase their fan base on Facebook.

Bayern said on its website that it had taken fans’ comments into account to determine that many were “very angry” with the club.

Fans had been directed to Facebook to watch the announcement of a new forward on Thursday, and were made to “like” Bayern’s page in order to view the proceedings.

Instead of learning the identity of forward Mario Gomez’s backup, fans were then presented with an app called “The New FCB Star.”

Thousands of fans reacted negatively, leaving uncomplimentary comments on the club’s Facebook page.