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In a freshly published memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines the chaotic period during Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Choice

As per Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister largely because of the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a public orator.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.

Clashing Agendas

The former leader alleges how his finance chief had his own agenda which involved advancing his books and testing out his game theories on Greece rather than genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.

Tsipras explained that the negotiations to prevent insolvency were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to prove the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”

High-Stakes Talks

During rollercoaster negotiations, the country came dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.

At stake was both the country's destiny and the harsh austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Attempts to find financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.

Assisting Greece was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras during their meeting.

Public Vote and U-Turn

In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move that plunged Europe into a further existential crisis.

Although the vote was won decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal with creditors that proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”

When the minister outlined a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the book, Tsipras concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for a deal that required intricate and sensitive management.”

He also wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.

The account of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.