Roma and Italy star Francesco Totti is the best on the planet, according to Brazilian legend Pele.
The South American made the surprising statement on Thursday, adding that he believes the Azzurri will be major players at this summer?s World Cup.
"He is the best player in the world,"the former No 10 noted. "He has just been a little unlucky in the past."
Totti has under-performed at the last two major tournaments when he was sent-off in the 2002 World Cup and was banned at Euro 2004 for spitting.
Yet Pele believes that the classy attacking midfielder has what is needed to lead Marcello Lippi?s side to glory on German soil.
"Brazil are favourites even if I think that Italy are the strongest side around right now," he added. "In fact, they were the best team at the last two editions."
Nevertheless, the three-time World Cup winner is expecting other smaller nations to make an impact.
"The World Cup is always a box of surprises," he continued. "Everyone is saying that Brazil will win but the favourites don?t always triumph.
"I like the look of the Czech Republic," added the former Santos great. "They are a good team who play football, a bit like Brazil.
"Out of the African nations, I?ll indicate the Ivory Coast."