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In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Choice

According to Tsipras's recollections, he chose that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his treasury head largely because of the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” skills when it came to public orator.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.

Clashing Agendas

Tsipras alleges that his finance chief possessed his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his theories using Greece instead of truly advocating the country's financial survival.

He noted that the discussions to avoid insolvency became “not just a method to secure a better deal for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid tense negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.

At stake lay both the country's future but also the severe austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Attempts to find funds from other sources, including an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.

Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Referendum and U-Turn

In July 2015, those harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw Europe into further crisis of identity.

Although the vote was won resoundingly by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.

“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”

After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and delicate handling.”

Tsipras further wrote how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hawks who were advocating Grexit.

This account of events has provoked anger and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.