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Within his recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil.

An Unconventional Appointment

According to the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head primarily due to the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a speaker.

“He was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis possessed a personal motives which involved advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his own game theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.

Tsipras noted that the discussions to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

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

At stake lay both the country's destiny but also the punishing austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Failed Alternatives

Attempts to find financing from other sources, including an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.

Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum and U-Turn

That summer, the excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into deeper crisis of identity.

Although the referendum was won decisively by voters against austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package from creditors which turned out to be even harsher.

Breaking Point

The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After the minister outlined a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Criticism

In the book, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”

He further claimed that his aggressive approach left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.

The account of events has been met with fury and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.