You’re entering into these relationships with a lot of negativity. Please consider the person holding the position and approach the potential relationship with a positive, constructive mindset. You’d be surprised what can happen.

Regarding the apology, go for it, but I think it should include a promise to bring your better self forward if a difference of opinion comes up so it doesn’t devolve into an argument.

Regarding criticism of things the manager does: hard no. That’s not your place and IMO no good can come of it. Just put it right out of your mind.

You forgot about the dependencies, didn’t you?