🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - why 'powerhouse' Arsenal are the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes marks Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace It's evident why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' top picks to claim the Premier League in the current campaign. Examine their outcomes against West Ham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches in the previous campaign. The Gunners have overcome all of them in the current season, but lost 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race last season. Impenetrable Rearguard Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are looking well positioned to ultimately achieve their title ambition. They stand first for clean sheets (6), goals allowed (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3). The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Mastery Their effectiveness from free kicks is widely recognized, but competing clubs still struggle to neutralize the Gunners from these situations. 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 excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just fearful of them and it is excellent to see." Title Potential What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City on home turf - and are still four points clear at the top. While they maintain victories, their historic competitors aren't faring so well. This marks the initial occasion at this point 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 beginning, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004. But the business has so far paid off in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries. Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games Over six hours without letting in a goal Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions Former players and analysts have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and resolve.