'People are intimidated' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the team to beat.

The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' preferred choice to secure the Premier League this season.

Look at their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those same matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have beaten all of them this time around, but lost 10 points across those games as they fell away in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title ambition.

They stand first for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The defensive partnership 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 widely recognized, but competing clubs still don't know how to stop the Gunners from these chances.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more 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 wary of them and it is excellent 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 on the road and Manchester City at home - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents are struggling. 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 boss Mikel Arteta at the start, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in search of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Unbreached games in three straight Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

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