🔗 Share this article 'People are afraid' - why 'juggernaut' Arsenal are the team to beat. Gabriel Magalhaes rejoices Arsenal's triumph over Crystal Palace It's obvious why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' favorites to win the Premier League this season. Examine their performances against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches during the prior term. 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 previously. Defensive Prowess Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are seeming ready to ultimately achieve their title target. They rank top for clean sheets (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3). The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Expertise Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but competing clubs still struggle to neutralize the Gunners from these situations. They have scored 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 wary of them and it is excellent to see." Title Claims What is particularly remarkable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played 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 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 pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the start, having invested around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that long-awaited first title since 2004. But the investment has so far proven successful in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite several injuries. Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games 385 minutes without allowing a goal Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament Former players and pundits have labeled Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and determination.