Anenrollment profileis what links an Apple device to an MDM server. Apple Learning resources are clear that the enrollment profile must always contain anMDM payload. This payload defines the server address, authentication method, and settings required for the device to establish secure management. Without the MDM payload, the device cannot receive configuration profiles, apps, or commands from the MDM solution.
Other items such as configuration profiles or provisioning profiles may be distributed after enrollment, but they are not part of the required enrollment profile. The MDM payload is therefore the critical element that makes enrollment functional.
References:Apple Platform Deployment - "Enrollment profiles in MDM."