ICM Stellar Sports have taken a “giant leap forward” with the recruitment of Michael Reschke to its executive team.

Michael, who in a career spanning 40 years has held senior positions at top Bundesliga clubs such as Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Bayern München, VfB Stuttgart and Schalke 04, becomes the sports agency’s new Head of European Football.

Speaking about the appointment, ICM Stellar Executive Chairman Jonathan Barnett said: “Michael is one of the most respected figures in European football and his appointment takes ICM Stellar to a whole new level – it is a giant leap forward.

“Football is changing rapidly and having someone with Michael’s knowledge, passion and professionalism on our team ensures we will not only be able to give better representation to our clients but also meet the challenges and take all the opportunities the future holds.”

Michael will work closely with heads of department in ICM Stellar’s European offices, directing player recruitment policies and strengthening relationships with the continent’s leading clubs.

Speaking about his new role, Michael, 63, said: “My life in football, from early days as youth coach up until being a director of clubs like Leverkusen, Stuttgart, Bayern and Schalke, has always been about taking a personal interest in the careers of players and ensuring they were able to achieve everything their special talent and dedication deserved.

“It is very appealing to me to be able to fuse my experience together with the very professional team of experts at ICM Stellar. The best football agencies always seek to bring the right clubs and players together at the right time, our goal will be always to support our clients and their clubs in the best way possible.”