Born in Olivos, Buenos Aires, Pumpido did not appear for any youth setups due to his studying responsibilities.
Pumpido made his professional debut on 16 May 2009, coming on as a late substitute for Carlos Luna in a 2–1 home win against Colón; it was his maiden appearance for the club.
He subsequently moved to Primera B Nacional side Independiente Rivadavia, scoring his first professional goal while at the club.
[2] On 7 January of the following year he moved abroad for the first time in his career, after agreeing to a six-month deal with Spanish Segunda División B side Racing de Santander.
[3] Pumpido's uncle, Nery was also a footballer: a goalkeeper, he was an international with Argentina on more than 30 occasions, having been world champion with the Albiceleste in 1986.