🔗 Share this article 'People are intimidated' - why 'unstoppable force' Arsenal have become the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes rejoices Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace It's evident why Arsenal are now numerous fans' top picks to secure the Premier League this season. Consider their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches last season. The Gunners have defeated all of them in the current season, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race previously. Defensive Prowess Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title goal. They rank top for clean sheets (6), goals allowed (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3). The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the best in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Expertise Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but competing clubs still don't know how to neutralize the Gunners from these chances. They have scored 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 perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is wonderful to see." Championship Pedigree What is even more notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still ahead by four points at the top. While they maintain victories, their historic competitors are struggling. This marks the first time 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 expectations was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in search of that long-awaited first title since 2004. But the spending has so far proven successful in impressive fashion, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and having the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries. Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games 385 minutes without letting in a goal Only three goals in 12 games across various contests Former players and analysts have described Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with conviction and resolve.