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Within his newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras does not hold back as he examines that turbulent era of Greece's financial crisis.

A Controversial Choice

According to the ex-PM's recollections, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be the treasury head largely due to the latter's international reputation along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to public orator.

“He was, in reality, more like a personality and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.

Clashing Agendas

Tsipras suggests how Varoufakis had his own motives that involved promoting Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his own theories on the nation rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.

Tsipras wrote how the talks to stave off insolvency became “not just a method of achieving a better deal for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Negotiations

During volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.

At stake was not only the country's destiny but also the punishing cutbacks demanded in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Options

Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.

Assisting Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.

Public Vote and U-Turn

In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, a move that threw the EU into a further crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was won resoundingly by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.

“He was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Criticism

In the book, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”

He further wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive style left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

This account of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.