even though it still states that there are still no slots for new participants.
That is deliberate disobedience and eager to work and not to learn or contribute to knowledge but only here to join campaign. You would have waited for the manager to make an official statement that there is an open spot for your rank then you apply. Well I wish you all the best.
Users are free to apply at any point. There is no disobedience going on. It's not illegal to leave an application in a thread for future consideration unless the manager specifically asks you not to. Even then, it's not illegal, you might just not be considered.