🔗 Share this article

The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' preferred choice to win the Premier League during this term.

Look at their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches last season.

The Gunners have defeated all of them this time around, but lost 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race last season.

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title ambition.

They rank top for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the finest in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but rival sides still find it difficult to neutralize the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just wary of them and it is excellent to see."

Championship Credentials

What is particularly notable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they maintain victories, their long-standing opponents aren't faring so well. This marks the premier instance at this juncture of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The expectations was on manager Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having allocated around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Unbreached games in each of their last three Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and experts have labeled Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and determination.