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In a newly released personal account, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he revisits the chaotic period during Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Choice

In the ex-PM's version, he appointed the maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly because of the latter's international reputation along with his highly compelling abilities as a public orator.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a personality rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.

Conflicting Agendas

Tsipras suggests that his finance chief had his own agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's books and testing out his theories using Greece rather than truly fighting for the country's financial survival.

He explained how those talks to avoid insolvency were “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's ideas.”

Critical Negotiations

Amid volatile discussions, the country found itself perilously close to exiting the single currency area.

On the line lay not only the country's destiny but also the harsh cutbacks required in exchange for financial aid by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Attempts to find funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.

Helping the indebted country was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Referendum and Reversal

In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.

Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors that turned out to be tougher.

Breaking Point

Tsipras claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”

When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Rebuke

In the book, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.”

He further wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks that were pushing for Grexit.

The retelling of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.