The film titled “Saipan,” set for release next summer, takes its name from the Pacific island where a football squad was preparing for a tournament hosted by Japan and South Korea. During the preparations, Keane left the camp following a public falling out with McCarthy.

McCarthy stated that he sent Keane home due to his “disruptive influence.” Keane had previously reconsidered quitting the squad, but the fallout pushed circumstances to the edge.

The film will depict the events leading up to the conflict between the two and Keane’s departure. Coogan is set to play McCarthy, and Eanna Hardwicke will play Keane.

The slated release is next summer, with production set to begin soon. Producers Macdara Kelleher and John Keville expressed excitement for the film, stating, “A million words have been written about what happened on that fateful week in 2002 on the tiny island of Saipan.”

Directors Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn added, “We’re thrilled to be working with this extraordinary cast and creative team.” Following the events, McCarthy resigned as Ireland manager in November 2002, and Keane later returned to the Ireland fold under McCarthy’s successor Brian Kerr.

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