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Within his newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.

An Unconventional Choice

In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed that maverick academic Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily because of the latter's global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a public orator.

“He was, truthfully, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras alleges how his finance chief had his own agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his economic models on Greece rather than genuinely advocating its economic stability.

He explained that those discussions to stave off bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic opportunity to prove the truth of his theories.”

High-Stakes Talks

Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.

On the line lay not only the country's future and those punishing austerity policies required in return for rescue loans from international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.

Assisting Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Public Vote and U-Turn

That summer, the punitive bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was carried decisively by voters who opposed austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.

“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”

After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Enduring Rebuke

Within the memoir, the author concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive management.”

Tsipras further wrote that his aggressive style left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

The retelling of history has provoked anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.