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Within his recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on the chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.

A Controversial Appointment

According to the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly due to the latter's global profile and his highly compelling skills as a speaker.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras alleges that Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.

Tsipras noted how those discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of his economic theories.”

Critical Negotiations

Amid volatile discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.

At stake lay not only Greece's destiny but also those severe austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Options

Efforts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.

Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras during their meeting.

Referendum and Reversal

In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged the EU into a deeper crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was won resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders that turned out to be more severe.

Breaking Point

Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.

“He was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After the minister outlined a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the book, the author concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”

He further wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.

The account of events has provoked fury and shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.