uncoated If I made a new user profile, would I be able to transfer over the authenticator apps with the data they currently have ? (I'm having issues backing up the accounts/exporting them, because "Microsoft", because "Google")..
Not unless the apps have a backup mechanism. Perhaps you could use Seedvault to make a backup of the apps and restore them, but I can't really guarantee you'll be successful. If you do try that route, make sure to use device-to-device backups in Seedvault.
uncoated Not sure if I need Google Play atm, can it work without having to use a Google account?
Yes. You need an account to login to the Play Store, ofc, but Google Play works without needing one.
uncoated What is the alternative to using F-Droid ? I keep hearing it's not something people recommend anymore.
Personally, I use a combination of Play Store, Accrescent, and Obtainium (which is a way to get apps from various sources such as GitHub).