🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - why 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes rejoices Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace It's clear why Arsenal have become many people's favorites to secure the Premier League in the current campaign. Consider their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace versus those identical matches during the prior term. The Gunners have beaten all of them this time around, but lost 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race in the prior campaign. Impenetrable Defense Arsenal's defensive solidity is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to at last realize their title ambition. They stand first for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3). The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the strongest in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Mastery Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but rival sides still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these opportunities. They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations. "Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just afraid of them and it is great to see." Championship Claims What is especially impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City at home - and are still four points clear at the top. While they keep winning, their traditional rivals face difficulties. This marks the first time 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 scrutiny was on manager Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004. But the business has so far proven successful in style, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and having the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries. Clean sheets 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 every tournament Former players and experts have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with confidence and resolve.