'People are fearful' - why 'powerhouse' Arsenal have become the side to defeat.

The proof is undeniable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' top picks to win the Premier League in the current campaign.

Consider their outcomes against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches last season.

The Gunners have overcome all of them during this campaign, but dropped 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race last season.

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a crucial element why they are seeming ready to at last realize their title ambition.

They rank top for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially 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 highly documented, but opposition teams still find it difficult to neutralize the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have notched 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 fear factor. People are just wary of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Credentials

What is particularly impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City at home - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they keep winning, their historic competitors aren't faring so well. 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 head coach Mikel Arteta at the outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and having the tightest defense, despite several injuries.

• Shutouts in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now operating with belief and resolve.