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In a newly released memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras pulls no punches as he revisits the chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Appointment

As per Tsipras's version, he chose the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister largely because of his global profile and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to communicator.

“He was, in reality, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda that involved advancing his publications as well as testing out his own game theories on Greece rather than genuinely fighting for its economic stability.

He wrote how those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his ideas.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

During rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

On the line lay both the country's future but also the severe austerity policies required in exchange for rescue loans by foreign lenders.

Failed Options

Efforts to secure funds from other sources, including an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.

Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum and U-Turn

That summer, those harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into deeper crisis of identity.

Even though the vote was won decisively by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be more severe.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”

When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency and distributing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Criticism

In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive management.”

He also wrote how his confrontational approach made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.

This retelling of history has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.