Seven players who could win their first caps: Saliba, Garnacho & more

Many of the big footballing nations – such as Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany and Spain – have already booked their World Cup places and are using the March international window to experiment with some fresh faces.

Whereas the likes of Italy, Portugal and the leading African nations face two nail-biting matches to continue their World Cup quest – but that doesn’t mean some of these nations haven’t taken a punt on a new face to carry them over the line.

Here are seven of the best players to potentially make their international debut’s this week.

Saliba is revered by the Arsenal faithful despite not having played a game for the club. Weird, even for Arsenal, right?

But the hype seems justified if Saliba’s performances on loan at Marseille are any indication. The young defender has earnt rave reviews in France for his composure, ball distribution and man-marking ability as Marseille have progressed to the Conference League quarter-finals.

And the 22-year-old has won his first call-up for the France national side, replacing the injured Benjamin Pavard in the squad.

Saliba was buoyed after receiving messages from Arsenal following his first call-up.

“Yes, they sent me messages,” said the defender. “The former director for example, and on social media, it’s nice.”

France will face Ivory Coast, in Marseille, and South Africa this month as they prepare to defend their World Cup trophy in Qatar.

Another Arsenal youngster to make a big impression this season, Martinelli has won the trust of Mikel Arteta with a series of accomplished performances in the Gunners’ quest for a Champions League return.

The 20-year-old has scored five goals and provided three assists in a youthful Arsenal side and his Premier League form has