🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the squad everyone fears. Gabriel Magalhaes marks Arsenal's victory over Crystal Palace It's clear why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' preferred choice to win the Premier League during this term. Look at their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent 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 fell away in the title race last season. Defensive Strength Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to ultimately achieve their title target. They stand first for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3). The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the strongest in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Expertise Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but rival sides still struggle to neutralize 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 perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just wary of them and it is excellent to see." Championship Claims What is especially remarkable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still four points clear at the top. While they keep winning, their historic competitors aren't faring so well. 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 outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that long-awaited first title since 2004. But the investment has so far paid off in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and having the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries. Clean sheets in three consecutive Premier League games 385 minutes without allowing a goal Only a trio of goals in 12 games across all competitions Former players and experts have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and determination.