Brighton loanee Julio Enciso appears to have avoided a serious setback after sustaining an injury to his left knee during Ipswich Town’s 1-1 draw against Aston Villa.
The 20-year-old Paraguayan playmaker, who joined Ipswich on loan last month, was visibly distressed as he left the pitch just 17 minutes into the match, raising fears of another major injury. Having previously undergone two surgeries for a meniscus tear in the same knee in 2023, which sidelined him for six months, concerns were heightened.
Enciso underwent an MRI scan earlier today, which thankfully revealed no significant structural damage. He will now remain under the supervision of Ipswich’s medical team as they monitor his recovery. Speaking to Paraguayan radio station 650AM, Paraguay national team doctor Osvaldo Insfrán confirmed: “Julio Enciso is much improved. The MRI showed nothing serious. He will follow a recovery program at Ipswich, though no exact return date has been set. We are talking about trauma or a sprain. Further evaluations will determine his timeline, but for now, he will undergo physiotherapy and rehabilitation.”
Enciso has featured in three matches for Ipswich since arriving in January but is now a major doubt for their upcoming Premier League clash against Tottenham at Portman Road. Ipswich, currently sitting third from bottom with just 17 points from 25 matches, are in desperate need of results as they battle to avoid relegation.
Before his loan move, Enciso made just two league starts for Brighton this season. Seagulls manager Fabian Hurzeler explained the reasoning behind the loan, stating: “Julio wants to play regularly, but we can’t guarantee that with our attacking options. Ipswich presented an opportunity for more game time, making this move beneficial for everyone. We’ll be closely monitoring his progress and wish him the best during his time there.”
Enciso has made 57 appearances for Brighton, scoring four goals, including the Premier League Goal of the Season for 2022-23.