Arjen Robben may have been Bayern Munich’s Champions League saviour once more but he was still forced to issue an apology following the 1-0 win in the first leg of their semi-final tie against Lyon.
Robben, whose goals against Fiorentina and Manchester United enabled the Bavarians to advance to the last four, netted the only goal at the Allianz Arena but then fell foul of coach Louis van Gaal by reacting petulantly to his late withdrawal.
The two Dutchmen had a face-to-face confrontation on the touchline as Robben ignored Van Gaal’s outstretched hand.
The former Dutch boss blocked his countryman and held him firmly while explaining his reasons for bringing him off.
Robben admitted afterwards his reaction was born of frustration.
“I had a really good feeling and felt I was really in the game and I could have scored another goal,” said the former Real Madrid man.
“Therefore, I could not understand why I was being removed.
“But I have got to apologise to all of the fans because I shouldn’t do that. I should have been more professional, but this is just part of my mentality — I always want to win.”
Van Gaal insisted Robben had been taken off to preserve him for the weekend Bundesliga clash against Borussia Monchengladbach.
“We need him to score goals for us in Monchengladbach too,” he said.