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In a recently unveiled personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits that chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Appointment

As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras chose the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly because of his global profile along with his “extremely attractive” skills as a communicator.

“In reality, he was, actually, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.

Clashing Agendas

The former leader suggests how his finance chief had his own agenda that involved promoting his books as well as testing out his economic models using the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.

Tsipras noted how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”

Critical Negotiations

During tense discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.

On the line was not only the country's destiny but also the punishing austerity measures required in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Attempts to find financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting the indebted country 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

That summer, the harsh bailout terms were put to a public vote, a move which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.

Even though the vote was won resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders which turned out to be tougher.

Breaking Point

Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.

“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Criticism

In the memoir, Tsipras concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding complex and delicate handling.”

Tsipras further wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks that were advocating Grexit.

The retelling of events has provoked fury along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.