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The evidence is unmistakable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' favorites to claim the Premier League during this term.

Examine their outcomes against West Ham and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches during the prior term.

The Gunners have defeated all of them in the current season, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race last season.

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a crucial element why they are seeming ready to finally fulfil their title ambition.

They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals allowed (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the finest in the league, with Arsenal keeping 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 find it difficult to stop the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just fearful of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is especially remarkable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City at home - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they keep winning, their traditional rivals 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 manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that coveted 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 strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and experts have described Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and purpose.