🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal are the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes celebrates Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace It's clear why Arsenal stand as many people's favorites to secure the Premier League in the current campaign. Examine their performances against West Ham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches last season. The Gunners have beaten all of them this time around, but dropped 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously. Impenetrable Backline Arsenal's backline resilience is a primary factor why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title target. They stand first for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3). The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the strongest in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Dead-Ball Excellence Their threat from set-pieces is highly documented, but opposition teams still don't know how 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 originating 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 wonderful to see." Championship Claims What is especially remarkable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still leading by four at the top. While they maintain victories, their long-standing opponents are struggling. This marks the initial occasion at this stage 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 boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that elusive 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 Over six hours without conceding a goal Only three goals in 12 games across various contests Former players and experts have characterized Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now operating with confidence and determination.