🔗 Share this article 'People are afraid' - why 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes rejoices Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' favorites to claim the Premier League during this term. Examine their outcomes against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those same matches during the prior term. The Gunners have beaten all of them during this campaign, but dropped 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously. Defensive Prowess Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are seeming ready to finally fulfil their title ambition. They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), shots on target faced (19) and expected goals against (5.3). The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the best in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Dead-Ball Excellence Their effectiveness from free kicks is widely recognized, but opposition teams still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these situations. They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations. "Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just wary of them and it is great to see." Championship Claims What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City on home turf - and are still ahead by four points at the top. While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents face difficulties. 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 expectations was on manager Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer signings in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004. But the business has so far proven successful in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and possessing the strongest defense, despite several injuries. Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games Over six hours without allowing a goal Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests Former players and pundits have labeled Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and purpose.