Millions of viewers across France will tune into TF1’s evening newscast Thursday at 8 p.m. local time (3 p.m. ET) to find out which players Didier Deschamps is taking to the upcoming World Cup in the United States.

As has become tradition in France, the national team coach will announce his squad live on television, and one of the biggest questions surrounding the 26-man roster is whether Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga will make the cut.

French media outlets increasingly believe Camavinga will ultimately be included, but his place in the squad has sparked real debate in recent weeks. Some analysts and former players have argued he could lose out to other midfielders despite his versatility, which remains one of his biggest advantages.

A difficult season in Madrid

The 23-year-old midfielder has endured an up-and-down season at Real Madrid, and that inconsistency has put his national team future under the microscope.

Injuries, Madrid’s shaky form, and his recent red card against Bayern Munich in a high-pressure Champions League clash have not helped his case. The downturn has reportedly not gone unnoticed by Deschamps, who has long been viewed in France as somewhat cautious about fully trusting Camavinga’s immense potential.

During France’s March international window in the United States, Camavinga appeared to fall to fifth in the midfield pecking order behind Aurélien Tchouaméni, Warren Zaïre-Emery, N’Golo Kanté, and Adrien Rabiot.

Even with Manu Koné sidelined through injury, Camavinga struggled to make an impact in friendlies against Brazil and Colombia. He came off the bench against Colombia in a heavily rotated lineup, further fueling uncertainty about his role heading into the World Cup.

Deschamps still searching for answers

Deschamps has frequently used Camavinga at left back in recent years, but even that tactical adjustment failed to cement his place in France’s long-term plans.

At the last World Cup, Camavinga changed the energy of the final against Argentina after coming off the bench. But at France’s most recent major international tournament, Euro 2024 in Germany, he started only once, in the quarterfinal against Portugal, largely because Rabiot was unavailable in midfield.

Those inconsistent performances have left questions hanging over his future with the national team just hours before Deschamps unveils his roster.

Surprise names emerging late

There is also growing momentum behind former Bayern Munich midfielder Corentin Tolisso, who has enjoyed a standout season with Lyon and could potentially snatch the final midfield spot.

Tolisso has regained top form in Ligue 1 and is now considered one of the possible surprise inclusions in Thursday night’s announcement. While Camavinga’s stock has dipped in recent months, players like Tolisso have steadily strengthened their case since the start of the year.

Camavinga remains the biggest uncertainty on a roster filled with several unanswered questions.

In goal, Robin Risser could receive a surprise call-up as the third goalkeeper following Lucas Chevalier’s injury and loss of playing time at Paris Saint-Germain. Up front, Ligue 1 leading scorer Esteban Lepaul, who has scored 20 goals across all competitions for Rennes this season, is another player who could break into the squad.

At 8 p.m. local time on TF1, Deschamps will finally reveal the roster France hopes can deliver the country’s third World Cup title on American soil.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.