Andrés Pérez stands out among the prominent footballers in Colombian football, particularly in the midfield position. His remarkable trajectory not only highlights his skills but also emphasizes his emotional connection with fans from various clubs.
As a notable graduate of Millonarios and an idol for Deportivo Cali, fans remember him fondly. But there was a chapter in his career he couldn’t close on a positive note—his departure from Millonarios. In a recent chat with journalist Óscar Javier Ostos from Gol Caracol, the Bogotá-born midfielder opened up for the first time about the circumstances surrounding his exit from the club.
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During the interview, Pérez explained the context of his departure, which unfolded while he was with Deportes Tolima . He emphasized that his desire to return to Millonarios was always lingering, but an opportunity arose for him to return. “I left for Tolima to play in the Copa Libertadores because the owners of my rights told me, ‘Andrés, we believe you will play in the Copa Libertadores,'” Pérez recounted. He described how the coach, Chiqui, wanted him on the team, yet he felt he didn’t belong there.
“When I arrived in Tolima, I said: ‘I don’t want to be here,'” Pérez stated, recalling instances when he yearned to be back with Millonarios. He mentioned having conversations with the club president at that time.
Eventually, he recounted his conversation with Millonarios’ president before he spoke with Luis Augusto García , who had a significant role in preventing his return.
“During the eliminations for the Germany 2006 World Cup in Uruguay, I encountered him at a game. He was serious, and I remarked, ‘I knew you would convince me.’ But that was many years later. By the time I returned, Chiqui García was involved in club operations,” Pérez explained.
He also shared how his attempt to re-enter Millonarios was thwarted. “He called me and said, ‘Andrés, I need to tell you something that will hurt you. You will not continue with the team. Good luck.'” This revelation caused him significant emotional distress, as he had hoped to return.
Moreover, in the same conversation, Pérez expressed his unyielding passion for football since childhood. “I’ve played football for as long as I can remember. I went through youth leagues and played micro-football,” he shared. He provides insight into how external validation influenced his pursuit of a professional football career, stating, “When people compliment you, like they did back then, you start to realize you’re on the right path.”
Reflecting on his arrival at Millonarios , he vividly recounted, “I was playing with Real Cartagena for six months when I received a call from Millonarios. Chiqui said, ‘Come here. I want you at Millonarios.’ I never imagined I would secure a starting position so quickly, but I ended up earning it just before my debut, and I didn’t lose it.”
- Copa Colombia 2010
- Superliga de Colombia 2014
- Torneo Apertura 2015
In summary, the emotional journey of Andrés Pérez showcases not only his dedication to football but also the influence of leadership within clubs. His story resonates with fans, highlighting the passions and challenges faced by professional athletes.