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There's no doubt why Arsenal are now numerous fans' favorites to secure the Premier League in the current campaign.

Examine their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches during the prior term.

The Gunners have defeated all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's backline resilience is a crucial element why they are seeming ready to ultimately achieve their title goal.

They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals allowed (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the strongest in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their danger from dead balls is well known, but opposition teams still struggle to contain the Gunners from these situations.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just wary of them and it is excellent to see."

Championship Credentials

What is particularly remarkable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City on home turf - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they maintain victories, their long-standing opponents are struggling. This marks the initial occasion 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 boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side second top scorers in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without letting in a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and pundits have labeled Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with belief and resolve.