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In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Choice

As per the ex-PM's recollections, he selected that maverick academic Varoufakis as the treasury head largely because of his global profile along with his “extremely attractive” skills as a speaker.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.

Conflicting Priorities

The former leader claims how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's books and experimenting with his own theories using the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.

He explained how those negotiations to prevent insolvency were “not just a method of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid volatile negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.

On the line was both the country's future but also the severe cutbacks required in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.

Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.

Referendum and U-Turn

That summer, the excoriating bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, a move that threw Europe into a further existential crisis.

Although the vote was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.

Breaking Point

Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.

“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”

After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Enduring Rebuke

In the memoir, the author concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal that required intricate and sensitive management.”

He also wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

The retelling of events has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.