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The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal are now many people's preferred choice to claim the Premier League this season.

Consider their results against West Ham and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches last season.

The Gunners have defeated all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title goal.

They stand first for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3).

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

Dead-Ball Dominance

Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but rival sides still struggle to stop the Gunners from these chances.

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 perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just fearful of them and it is great to see."

Championship Claims

What is particularly notable 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 ahead by four points at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents are struggling. This marks the first time 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 outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• 385 minutes 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 challenging to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and resolve.