Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed it is a "very real possibility" that games will become shorter to combat fixture congestion.

The Champions League group stage has expanded from six matches to eight this season, and Manchester City's Rodri - before he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, ruling him out for the campaign - warned players could be forced to strike if the calendar continues to expand.

Gunners defender Jurrien Timber, who was sidelined for nine months last season with a knee injury, has also described the current schedule as "dangerous".

And Arteta, speaking ahead of his side's Premier League clash against Everton at the Emirates on Saturday, raised the prospect of matches being reduced from 90 minutes.

When asked how football might evolve in the future, the Spaniard said: "It is going to be very constrained and very related to new regulations and new rules.

"Because with the amount of games we are going to have to play, the type of squad you are going to have is going to be vital."