🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal are the team to beat. Gabriel Magalhaes marks Arsenal's victory over Crystal Palace There's little doubt why Arsenal have become numerous fans' favorites to claim the Premier League this season. Examine their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches during the prior term. The Gunners have defeated all of them during this campaign, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race in the prior campaign. Defensive Dominance Arsenal's defensive solidity is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title ambition. They lead the league for shutouts (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 arguably the best in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Dead-Ball Superiority Their danger from dead balls is well known, but competing clubs still struggle to stop the Gunners from these opportunities. They have scored 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 do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just fearful of them and it is great to see." Championship Credentials What is especially impressive about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City at home - and are still ahead by four points at the top. While they keep winning, their traditional rivals face difficulties. 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 scrutiny was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004. But the business has so far paid off in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries. Unbreached games in each of their last three Premier League games Nearly 6.5 hours without letting in a goal Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions Former players and experts have characterized Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and determination.