- plays quality football at a high level for a number of years and for both club and country - plays a dominant role for both club and country - regularly is a deciding factor in games and tournaments for both club and country And for the very elite category: - has proven his worth in different leagues.
To be among the top 3 or 4 at their position in the world (for a position like CB/CM/F where 2 are fielded at a time, perhaps increase that to 6-8).
I agree with the last post. The term world class should refer to the cream of the crop and the best couple of players in their position. Obviously that will cause a fair few arguments but it's the only way to keep the term meaningful.
Any and only players who would start in a World XI squad are world class players. Great players are ones who can start at most top clubs.
but then guys who are born in italy, spain, or england have a handicap. why would maldini leave milan for england?