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The proof is undeniable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' preferred choice to claim the Premier League during this term.

Consider their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches in the previous campaign.

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.

Impenetrable Rearguard

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

They lead the league for unbreached games (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Expertise

Their threat from set-pieces is highly documented, but rival sides still struggle to neutralize the Gunners from these situations.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more 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 daunting aura. People are just fearful of them and it is wonderful to see."

Title Claims

What is particularly notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they maintain victories, their traditional rivals aren't faring so well. This marks the premier instance 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 pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without conceding a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across every tournament

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 purpose.