Playing for 40+years, only started practicing w/a metronome a lot in the last 6 years. I've certainly played w/other folks (including some drummers!) who should have spent more time w/one. It was exposure to good teachers (recording & touring pros) that got me into the habit.
If you plow through any of the numerous metronome threads on here, you'll find the majority of folks experienced with lots of musical collaboration (teaching, bands, recording, etc) to be strong advocates. OTOH, folks who are self taught and seldom play w/other musicians will often espouse the need for rhythmic 'freedom'.
I have seen a Youtube of Adam Rafferty discouraging metronome use - and that guy can groove! But I think the proof residing in centuries of music education pretty handily refutes his personal opinion, when it comes to most people.
If you train your timing w/a metronome and educate your ear and body to how musical rhythms should sound & feel (by listening to good music), you'll do fine.
