Former Santos Defender Julio Manzur Arrested on Drug trafficking
LUQUE — May 10, 2024 —
Former santos FC defender Julio Manzur was arrested in Luque, Paraguay, on Friday. Teh arrest stems from allegations of Manzur’s involvement in drug trafficking, specifically the buying and reselling of cocaine. Local authorities report that Manzur acted as an investor. Further details surrounding the case are expected to emerge, with potentially significant implications for the former footballer and the ongoing investigation.
Former Santos Defender Julio Manzur Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charges
Luque, Paraguay – Julio Manzur, a former defender for Santos FC, was arrested Friday in Luque, Paraguay, on charges of involvement in drug trafficking. Local police reports indicate that Manzur allegedly acted as an investor, buying and reselling cocaine within teh country.

Julio Manzur during his time with Santos FC. (Credit: Santos FC Disclosure)
Did You Know?
Paraguay is a key transit country for cocaine trafficked from south America to Europe and other markets. Its porous borders and corruption challenges make it attractive to drug cartels.
Manzur’s Football Career
Manzur’s professional football career spanned several clubs before his retirement in 2016, when he played for Rubio Ñu in Paraguay. Prior to that, he played for:
- Cerro Corá (Paraguay)
- Guaraní (Paraguay)
- pachuca (Mexico)
- Libertad (Paraguay)
- tigre (Argentina)
- Olimpia (Paraguay)
Time with Santos FC
Manzur joined Santos FC in 2006, playing 49 games and scoring two goals. He was part of the team that won the São paulo championship that year.
International Career
Manzur also represented Paraguay on the international stage, earning a spot on the national team for the 2006 World Cup.Even though Paraguay was eliminated in the first phase,Manzur played 13 minutes in their victory over Trinidad and Tobago.
Pro Tip
Former athletes sometimes face challenges transitioning to post-career life. Support programs and financial literacy education can help them avoid pitfalls.
Related News
In other sports news:
- Erling Haaland is set to return to manchester City after recovering from an injury.
Guardiola confirms Haaland’s return at City after injury, ready and in shape.
- Atlético-MG is preparing for a key match against Fluminense with the return of a meaningful player.
Atlético-MG will have weight return to face fluminense.