Brazil legend Pele has admitted that he 'fears every player' in Germany's World Cup squad.

The Selecao, for whom Pele featured 92 times, have been backed by many to win the tournament on home soil this year, while Joachim Low's side must first navigate through a tricky group containing Portugal, Ghana and USA.

"Brazil are the favourites," the 73-year-old told German publication Bild. "We are playing at home and have a good team. But I really respect Germany. They are the best team in Europe together with Spain; both are perfectly organised.

"I fear every German player with my heart. Mainly Thomas Muller and also Mesut Ozil - these players could be dangerous."

Die Mannschaft get their World Cup campaign underway on Monday night when they face Portugal at the Arena Fonte Nova.