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The proof is undeniable why Arsenal have become numerous fans' preferred choice to secure the Premier League in the current campaign.

Look at their results against West Ham and Crystal Palace versus those identical matches during the prior term.

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

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to at last realize their title ambition.

They rank top for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and xGA (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the best in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Dominance

Their danger from dead balls is highly documented, but rival sides still find it difficult to contain the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more 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 Potential

What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's start 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 ahead by four points at the top.

While they keep winning, their traditional rivals face difficulties. This marks the premier instance 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 pressure was on manager Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far proven successful in impressive fashion, with his side second top scorers in the league and having the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and experts have labeled Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now performing with confidence and purpose.