Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has tipped star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, but insists the Belgian must first build his trophy cabinet if he is to be seriously considered for the award.

De Bruyne starred again for City at the weekend as he laid on three assists for Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero in a 5-1 win over Leicester.

The trio took his total to 14 for the season, four more than any other player in the league.

After his dominant display against the Foxes, Guardiola says he believes that the former Chelsea star has what it takes to become the world’s best.

“I have no doubt.” said the Spaniard when asked about De Bruyne’s potential to win the Ballon d’Or in the future.

“To be a contender, you have to win [the Champions League], and be there in the latter stages. But how he played against Leicester it is hard to find better in Europe.”

Guardiola continued: “It is not just one game, it is all season and every three days that he is playing that way.”

De Bruyne too has big ambitions for himself. With City 16 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, the Belgium international says he hopes he can bring home the title and more silverware with City in the future.

De Bruyne, 26, said: “I do everything to win titles with the team. What happens after is an extra.

“I am very pleased with the way everything is going for me. The way the team is playing makes it easier for me and for them. At the end, if you get an individual honour it is beautiful.”