Bastian Schweinsteiger has said that Manchester United and Bayern Munich both have "incredible fan-bases", after appearing to suggest that his new side is more popular.

The German international described Louis van Gaal's side as bigger globally following his move to Old Trafford, but has insisted that the quote was taken out of context.

The midfielder said in a statement on his Twitter account: "With my statement I simply wanted to express that Manchester United is more popular in the US.

"I played for FC Bayern for 17 years and I am very grateful. Both FC Bayern and Manchester United are globally successful clubs with incredible fan-bases."

Schweinsteiger spent 17 years with Bayern before completing his move to the Premier League side earlier this week.