The Indian Super League (ISL) began in 2014 with big dreams for Indian football, and fans were eager to witness new heroes take the stage. One of the first to capture their hearts was Iain Hume. He wasn’t the flashiest name on paper, but his passion, energy, and attitude made him unforgettable.

From fighting through injuries to scoring important goals, Hume quickly became one of the ISL’s earliest icons. Many players have represented both Kolkata and Kerala clubs, but few have earned the lasting love and admiration of both sets of fans the way Hume did. His journey in the ISL is a story of courage, commitment, and the kind of heart that makes legends.

Rising star for the Blasters

Hume began his ISL journey in 2014 with Kerala Blasters FC, bringing valuable European experience to the team upon his arrival in India. He quickly made an impression, scoring his first goal in just his second match, even though it came in a 2-1 loss to Chennaiyin FC. Right from the start, Hume showed why he was different: his pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing made him a constant threat.

But it wasn’t only about goals. Hume’s off-the-ball work, dropping deep to support the midfield, and tireless running set him apart. He finished the inaugural season with five goals and three assists, guiding the Blasters all the way to the final. His standout performance against Chennaiyin FC in the semi-final first leg was a glimpse of the leader he would become. Though Kerala Blasters FC narrowly lost to ATK FC in the final, Hume’s dedication set a benchmark for foreign players in the league.

Glory days with ATK FC

In 2015, Hume moved to ATK FC, the reigning champions, and instantly raised his game. He adapted quickly, showing no hesitation in a new environment. Despite not scoring a single goal in the first six games, he erupted with a hat-trick against Mumbai City FC in the seventh match, and from there, he was unstoppable.

Hume scored consecutively in the last five league-phase games, including another hat-trick against FC Pune City, helping ATK FC reach the playoffs for the second straight year. Although they fell to Chennaiyin FC over the two-legged semi-final, Hume’s performance remained one of the most memorable for the Kolkata side. He finished second to Stiven Mendoza in the Golden Boot race with 11 goals and four assists in 16 appearances.

Hume stayed in Kolkata for another season, determined to finally lift the elusive ISL Cup. His individual performances continued at a high level, scoring seven goals in ISL 2016, and once again leading his side to the final. This time, ATK FC defeated Kerala Blasters FC to claim the ISL Cup, cementing Hume’s status as a hero in Kolkata.

Returning to Kerala Blasters FC

Hume returned to Kerala Blasters FC in the following season, bringing experience and leadership to the squad. After Kochi fans endured heartbreak in two finals over three seasons, there were high hopes that Hume could make a difference. He added five more goals to his tally, which included another hat-trick to his name.

Unfortunately, a serious knee injury cut his season short, forcing him to miss the final phase of matches. Without their star forward, the Blasters struggled and finished sixth in the table, missing out on the playoffs. Despite the setback, Hume’s performances earlier in the season reminded fans of his quality and influence on the pitch.

Final Chapter at FC Pune City

Hume ended his ISL journey with FC Pune City. He missed the opening phase due to an injury carried over from the previous season and returned to the pitch in November, taking some time to regain full fitness. Despite the lingering injuries and the physical toll of years of football, he continued to play with determination and courage.

He scored one goal in his final season, but it was his professionalism and commitment that made him the kind of player every coach would want in their team. Fans across India remember Hume not just for the clubs he represented, but for the passion and spirit he displayed on every pitch he played.