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In a recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on that chaotic period during Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Choice

In the ex-PM's account, he chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame along with his very persuasive 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 Priorities

Tsipras alleges how Varoufakis had a personal agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his economic models using Greece rather than genuinely fighting for its economic stability.

Tsipras explained that the discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”

Critical Talks

During rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself perilously close to leaving the eurozone.

At stake was both the country's future but also those severe austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds by foreign lenders.

Failed Options

Efforts to find financing elsewhere, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting the indebted country would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Public Vote Followed by U-Turn

That summer, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into a further existential crisis.

Even though the referendum was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result and negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.

Breaking Point

Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the memoir, the author asserts how his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive management.”

Tsipras further wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks who were advocating Grexit.

This retelling of events has been met with anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence on the matter.