O’Connell joined the Canaries in September 2024 after spells at Belgian clubs Oostende and RWDM Brussels as a technical scout before stepping into his current post, where he assumed responsibility for the scouting process in France, Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
His exit comes amid City’s search for a new head of scouting after Lee Dunn was promoted to the role of assistant sporting director earlier this year, ahead of Neil Adams’ retirement after a 30-year association with the club.
O’Connell will link up again with Rangers’ head of recruitment Robbie Thelwell, who departed the Canaries last October.
Writing on his LinkedIn profile, O’Connell wrote: “After two seasons at Norwich City Football Club, it’s time for the next chapter.
“I have absolutely loved every moment of my time at NCFC, and I’m really proud of the impact I’ve made within the recruitment department, firstly as Technical Scout and then as Regional Scouting Lead.
“I’ve given my all with the detail, quality, volume, and consistency of my work, and I’ve loved being relentless every day. The opportunity firstly to focus on identifying and developing talents, and latterly to become a market expert across four key regions, has been hugely rewarding and will definitely stand me in good stead going forward.
Lee Dunn (centre left) has stepped up from his head of recruitment position to become assistant sporting director. (Image: Daniel Hambury/Focus Images Ltd)
“I’ve been lucky to have worked alongside some really good people in a really good department. Connor Cole, Matthew Lewis, Ricky Douglas, Matthew Kimber, Mike Haines, Frederico Fortes, and Craig Armstrong. I have really enjoyed working with these guys and have tried to learn different things from each of them and their different experiences across football. And special thanks to Lee Dunn for the opportunity to join the Club.
“I leave as a genuine fan and I’m really looking forward to following the Club’s progression into next season and beyond.
“Now I’m really excited for the next challenge, and the opportunity to move outside of my comfort zone, another new league, and a new environment at Rangers Football Club. I can’t wait to give it absolutely everything!”