A return to normal borders. While I do wish they would experiment a bit more given the length of borders, it makes sense to start with a normal 50/50.
In that case you'll do well! It is extremely easy to find random people. You can just spawn in a region and use voice or text chat. With that you can have the full experience. It is easy to find someone willing to chat. Clans are only required for large-scale operations and are optional otherwise.
I hope that the change from major updates to smaller quality-of-life updates works out well. Definitely love the AFK kicking...hope that it isn't easily bypassable.
TLDR: Game is great, but is the best with a group. (Plus you probably won't need to deal with logistics)
In my opinion, for a solo player the game might not be 'the best' but it is a great game. The game definitely prioritizes groups and teamwork among those groups as it is an mmo. Your enjoyment of the game will depend on what you are specifically looking for. I would mainly focus on what you find enjoyable from a game. Don't let the comments of clan logistics discourage you from the game, you will most likely not even interact with it.
If you want to play a world war simulator where you are a soldier, an engineer, a medic, you will easily be able to find something to do. If you like being a small contribution to multiple month long war effort you'll definitely enjoy the game.
Teamwork makes the game better, I will note that there are certain clans who work to provide more advanced equipment (Tanks, artillery, etc) for other players, so you will be able to find equipment you will just have to work with others to get it and use it. Which I guess defeats the point of solo play... but it exists.