Julio Enciso, Paraguay’s new Strasbourg jewel | OneFootball

Julio Enciso broke through at 15 and became Paraguay’s record transfer at 18, now the 22-year-old Strasbourg winger is revered for his creativity and edge.

L'Équipe writes that he grew up in Caaguazu in modest circumstances, played futsal for three years under his cabinetmaker father Luis, and was trailed by Olimpia, Cerro Porteno and Guarani. He followed Boca Juniors and copied Ronaldinho’s celebrations.

At 13 he chose Libertad for development and schooling, easing the concerns of his mother, a domestic worker. Early on he carried extra weight and lingered near the box, yet his touch and finishing stood out. Hard work reshaped him, he leapt from youth teams to the seniors and held himself to exacting standards.

He debuted in the top flight at 15 years and 52 days, then became a senior international a little over 17, just before his baccalaureate. Argentinian coach José Chamot promoted him, depicting an audacious, inventive and versatile player whose humility made him popular inside the club.

In 2022, tracked by Manchester United and City, he joined Brighton for 11 M€, the costliest move in his country’s history, and gained the nickname La Joya. An encouraging first season under Roberto De Zerbi, 26 matches, four goals and two assists, was followed by a torn external meniscus in his left knee, six months out and a lost place.

He spent January 2025 on loan at Ipswich City in the Premier League. After a knee clean-up in July and a summer wedding, he has rediscovered spark at Strasbourg, joining from Brighton for under 10 M€, while also drawing interest from Borussia Dortmund.

Source: L'Équipe