> If the footnote markers are links, then the user can use the back button/gesture to return to the main content. But, even though this restores the previous scroll position, the user is still left with the challenge of finding their previous place in a wall of text^6.

and didn't read footnote 6, which mentions the technique I'm describing. But I still don't seem to see the UX issues, other than the mention of a teeny-weeny hit target, which I admit is perfectly legitimate. But I am an academic, so it is probably no surprise that imitating academia appeals to me.