🔗 Share this article 'People are intimidated' - the reasons 'unstoppable force' Arsenal are the squad everyone fears. Gabriel Magalhaes rejoices Arsenal's triumph over Crystal Palace The evidence is unmistakable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' preferred choice to claim the Premier League in the current campaign. Consider their performances against West Ham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches in the previous campaign. The Gunners have beaten all of them during this campaign, but lost 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race last season. Defensive Dominance Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are looking well positioned to at last realize their title target. They stand first for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3). The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the strongest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Proficiency Their threat from set-pieces is highly documented, but opposition teams still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these opportunities. They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional than any other side, with 69% of their goals resulting 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 excellent to see." Championship Credentials What is especially impressive about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still four points clear at the top. While they maintain victories, their historic competitors are struggling. This marks the first time 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 pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the start, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in quest of that elusive first title since 2004. But the investment has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite several injuries. Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games Nearly 6.5 hours without conceding a goal Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests Former players and pundits have characterized Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with belief and resolve.