Only France has a directly elected executive  Presidential system in Europe - Parliamentary democracy is the norm, and I would advocate that for the EU as well - particularly with such a fractured demos.

But I do think the EU lacks a "prime ministerial" figure who is ultimately accountable for what goes on - and visibly answerable to the Parliament.  People just don't understand the separation of powers between the Parliament, Commission and Council and lack a personal or emotional "human" engagement with their leadership.

The US system IMHO on the other hand goes too far in the opposite direction - vesting almost messianic powers and expectations in one person.  That can be very exciting and engaging if it all goes well - but it can also go very wrong...

notes from no w here