Bayern Munich chief Max Eberl admits Ralf Rangnick's rejection came as a surprise.

The Austria coach has rejected the chance to succeed Thomas Tuchel as Bayern coach next season.

Eberl has indicated that Bayern was hit hard by the former Manchester United manager's choice.

"Very," was the short but meaningful answer from the sports director when asked by SAT.1 whether the Austrian coach's decision had surprised them.

Rangnick is said to have initially given Eberl and Co. a general promise, but shortly afterwards he backtracked, cancelled and committed to his job with Austria.