John Wilmar Pérez Muñoz (born 21 February 1970) is a former Colombian football (soccer) player.
A central midfielder, effective in winning the ball and passing it forward, Pérez played for the Colombian clubs Independiente Medellín and Deportivo Cali. In 2000, he moved to the Columbus Crew in the United States.CNNSI.com. "Colombian in Columbus: Midfielder Perez headed to play for Crew". 7 March 2000. Retrieved 19 April 2013. After a slow first season in Columbus, Pérez excelled in 2001 while forming the core of a sturdy midfield next to Brian Maisonneuve. He finished the year with 8 goals and 15 assists,MLSSoccer.com. "John Wilmar Perez". Retrieved 19 April 2013. earning recognition as the club's Most Valuable Player for the season.Columbus Crew. "Awards - Columbus Crew". Retrieved 19 April 2013. In 2002, Pérez experienced a decline in his statistics and playing time, but nonetheless helped the Crew win their first trophy, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Pérez also represented the Colombia national team and was a participant at the 1992 Summer Olympics, 1997 Copa America, and 1998 FIFA World Cup.FIFA. "1998 FIFA World Cup France - Colombia" . Retrieved 19 April 2013. He played in all four of Colombia's matches at the Copa America in 1997,Tabeira, Martín. "Copa América 1997". RSSSF, 2 August 2007. Retrieved 19 April 2013. but remained on the bench throughout the World Cup the following year.
Honors
Club Columbus Crew Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup: 2002
References