'People are fearful' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the squad everyone fears.

There's little doubt why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' favorites to win the Premier League this season.

Consider their performances against West Ham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches during the prior term.

The Gunners have beaten all of them in the current season, but lost 10 points across those games as they fell away in the title race in the prior campaign.

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title goal.

They stand first for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and xGA (5.3).

The central defensive pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the finest 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 well known, but opposition teams still find it difficult to stop 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 excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just fearful of them and it is great to see."

Championship Credentials

What is especially impressive about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City at home - and are still ahead by four points at the top.

While they keep winning, their long-standing opponents 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 scrutiny was on head coach Mikel Arteta at the start, having allocated around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that long-awaited first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and having the most resilient defense, despite several injuries.

• Shutouts in three straight Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests

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