Kante was named man-of-the match as Chelsea upset the odds by beating Manchester City 1-0 at the Estadio do Dragao on Saturday to be crowned champions of Europe for a second time.
While Kai Havertz struck the all-important winner on the stroke of half time, it was Kante’s all-action display in the middle of the park that earned plenty of plaudits.
The 30-year-old Frenchman also won the best player in both legs as Chelsea eliminated Real Madrid in the semi-finals.
Kante’s impressive performances in the latter stages of Europe’s premier club competition has thrown his name into the hat for the Ballon D’Or award.
"It's straightforward, yes [he is the best in the world]," Azpilicueta said of the former Leicester City man post-match.
"He does everything. The energy he brings, I don't know how many ball recoveries he had today. The way he drives the ball forward, he covers so much ground.
"It is special to have him. Of course, when we don't have him we miss him. After winning the World Cup and now Champions League, he is still so humble as a person.
"I am so happy for him, he is a massive part of this team and I am very happy to have him next to me for a few years."
